When I first read about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi accepting Russian oil, I viewed this as an opportunistic economic abuse that is letting down fellow Quad members. But what if there is an actual cohesive strategy here? What if India is supported by western nations allowing Russian oil to flow at prices that do not allow Russia to prosper, what if Russia is just breaking even?

India is receiving cheap Russian oil to power its industry, this allows the Indian economy to grow and be competitive. I am not sure if this view is correct, so I believe some analysis is required before forming an opinion. Well, that was my thoughts before Donald Trump slammed India on the international stage, but you never know with Trump, he changes his mind so much, there is no strategy with him, it is just a daily thought bubble based on the last person he spoke to.

What we do know is India is receiving Russian oil at a pretty good price. What if these Indian oil purchases are placing downward pressure on Russian oil prices? What if they are taking Russian supply and denying other nations gaining Russian oil at better prices? Now, this concept is worth considering even if it is a fanciful proposition. Without being seen as a conspiracy theorist, I like to look at a number of plausible options before forming an opinion. If better information becomes available, I will change my views based on the information presented. Naturally, Modi could just be having a crack in an opportunistic manner, this is the simplest explanation after all.