Russia Assures India of Steady Oil Supplies Amid Global Tensions
Russia's Commitment to India's Energy Needs
On Wednesday, Sergey Lavrov emphasized that India's energy requirements and the flow of Russian oil to the nation would remain stable, despite the prevailing geopolitical strains and competition for energy routes. In an interview with RT India prior to his participation in the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in India, Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's dedication to fulfilling its energy agreements with partner nations, including India.
Lavrov remarked, “The objective of the US is to dominate and control all significant energy routes. This intention is quite evident, and I believe India is aware of the situation.” He further stated, “I assure you that India's interests regarding Russian energy supplies will remain intact, and we will strive to prevent any unfair competition from impacting our agreements.”
The Russian foreign minister accused the United States of attempting to control global energy pathways and exerting pressure on nations that maintain energy relations with Russia. He also criticized European nations for their efforts to reduce reliance on Russian oil and gas, suggesting that such decisions were politically motivated.
“It is not an act of God that leads Europeans to reject contracts for energy supplies from Russia. They are now attempting to prohibit our gas and oil simply as a punitive measure against Russia,” he stated. “We do not impose penalties on anyone and honor our commitments sincerely, regardless of whether we are dealing with friendly or unfriendly nations. If an agreement is reached, it is customary in Russia to uphold it,” Lavrov added.
He warned that Europe might encounter a more severe energy and economic crisis due to the restrictions on Russian energy imports and the ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. “These actions have plunged Europe into a significant crisis, both in energy and food sectors, and it is likely that Europe will suffer the most from the situation in the Strait of Hormuz,” he noted.
Lavrov pointed out that the ban on purchasing Russian oil and gas would compel Europe to rely on US liquefied natural gas (LNG), which comes at a higher cost. His comments arrive as global energy markets face ongoing pressure due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and rising tensions in West Asia. India has consistently asserted that its energy acquisitions are driven by national interests and the need for energy security while engaging with various international partners to ensure stable and affordable energy supplies.