India's largest importer of Russian oil has ceased buying it, ahead of an EU ban on fuel imports made from Russian oil through third countries, which takes effect next year. BBC News reports that the country’s largest conglomerate, Reliance Industries, owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani, has stopped importing Russian crude for its export-only refining unit at Jamnagar in the western state of Gujarat.

The move is also in line with U.S. sanctions on major Russian oil producers Rosneft and Lukoil, set to kick in on November 21.

"This transition has been completed ahead of schedule to ensure full compliance with product-import restrictions coming into force on 21 January 2026," Reliance said in a statement.

The White House has welcomed the move by Reliance.

"We welcome this shift and look forward to advancing meaningful progress on U.S.-India trade talks," the White House press office said, in a statement to the Washington Post.

Read More: India Exports to U.S. Rise, Despite 50% Tariffs

The U.S. has been applying pressure on Delhi to cease importing Russian oil, and President Donald Trump hit India with 50% tariffs in August, including a 25% penalty for buying Russian oil and arms , which he says was funding Moscow's war on Ukraine.