Russia has accused the United States of attempting to block India and other key partners from purchasing Russian oil, amid growing uncertainty over global energy trade following Washington’s recent trade moves. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov made the allegations during an interview with TV BRICS, sharply criticising what he described as America’s pursuit of “economic domination” through coercive measures.
Lavrov claimed that the US is using tariffs, sanctions and direct prohibitions to force countries away from affordable Russian energy and towards expensive American liquefied natural gas (LNG). “They are trying to ban India and our other partners from buying cheap, affordable Russian energy resources, while forcing them to buy US LNG at exorbitant prices,” he said, according to ANI and Sputnik.
Referring to past diplomatic engagements, Lavrov recalled peace talks held in Anchorage, Alaska, last year, where Russia accepted a US proposal aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict and expanding cooperation. However, he alleged that instead of progress, Moscow faced fresh sanctions and what he described as a “war against tankers” on the high seas, allegedly violating the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
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Claims Of Economic Domination And Trade Control
The Russian foreign minister argued that Washington’s actions go beyond energy, claiming the US seeks to control trade routes and restrict Moscow’s economic and military ties with some of its strongest partners, including India. He said such steps are incompatible with fair competition and undermine global cooperation.
Lavrov stressed that despite these challenges, Russia remains open to working with all countries, including the US, and highlighted nations such as India, China, Indonesia and Brazil as examples of partners maintaining an independent approach to cooperation.
The remarks come as speculation grows over India potentially reducing its oil imports from Russia. Addressing the issue, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Monday that India’s energy decisions would continue to be guided strictly by “national interest.” He emphasised that as a developing and net energy-importing country, India prioritises adequate availability, fair pricing and reliable supply to manage inflation and economic stability.
The backdrop to Lavrov’s comments also includes a newly announced India-US trade deal. US President Donald Trump recently said Washington would reduce tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent and claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to stop buying Russian oil and instead increase energy purchases from the US. New Delhi has not officially confirmed any such commitment.