Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has strongly criticised the United States, accusing Washington of attempting to block India and other countries from purchasing Russian oil through sanctions, tariffs and restrictions on maritime trade.
In an interview with TV BRICS, as reported by Sputnik, Lavrov alleged that the US is pursuing policies designed to push countries away from affordable Russian energy in favour of costlier American alternatives. He described these actions as coercive and part of a broader strategy to dominate global energy markets.
Lavrov claimed that despite earlier diplomatic engagements between Moscow and Washington—particularly discussions around resolving the Ukraine conflict—the US has continued to impose new restrictions instead of easing tensions. He alleged that measures now include interference with oil tankers on international waters, which he said violates the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
According to Lavrov, these actions are aimed at preventing nations such as India from accessing discounted Russian energy. He said European countries had already been barred from buying Russian oil and accused the US of forcing its partners to turn to American LNG at significantly higher prices.
The Russian foreign minister further stated that sanctions, tariffs and outright bans were being used as economic weapons, arguing that such tactics undermine fair competition and free trade. He added that the US itself was creating artificial barriers to cooperation, even as countries like India, China, Brazil and Indonesia remained open to engagement with all major powers.
Lavrov’s remarks come at a time when India’s energy ties with Russia are under increased international scrutiny. Addressing speculation over possible changes to India’s oil import strategy, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reiterated that New Delhi’s decisions are driven by national interest, with a focus on availability, affordability and supply reliability.
India has neither confirmed nor denied reports suggesting a potential reduction in Russian crude imports following recent developments in US–India trade relations. The speculation gained momentum after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order rolling back an additional 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods, following a bilateral trade agreement that lowered duties to 18 per cent.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reaffirmed India’s long-standing stance on energy security, stating that meeting the needs of 1.4 billion citizens remains the government’s top priority. He emphasised that India’s strategy is centred on diversifying energy sources in line with market realities and evolving global conditions.
India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian crude has been a sensitive issue in its relationship with the United States, with American officials repeatedly arguing that such imports indirectly support Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
