Many Indian refiners have paused new orders for Russian oil since U.S. sanctions last week on Moscow's top two crude exporters as they await clarity from the government and suppliers, with some turning to the spot market for alternatives,

U.S. crude prices were rising nearly 2% on Wednesday to above $58 a barrel on reports of progress in U.S.-India trade talks, which could include curbs on imports of Russian oil by India.

U.S. and EU sanctions on Russia's top oil producers have heaped pressure on India's refiners, especially Reliance Industries. The golden run of discounted Russian barrels that boosted their profits and margins may be coming to an end.

KALMYKIA (RUSSIA)- Over 50,000 devotees, many of whom waited in queues stretching up to one kilometer, have paid homage at a monastery here which is hosting an exposition of India’s Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha, an official said. The exposition from India has drawn an unprecedented response in the Republic of Kalmykia, Russia, he said.