Russian Foreign Minister Accuses United States of Pursuing Energy Dominance Through Unilateral Actions
Introduction
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, in an interview broadcast on Russian state television, accused the United States of abandoning internationally recognized diplomatic norms in favor of a policy centered on securing dominance over global energy markets. He specifically cited U.S. military operations in Venezuela and Iran as examples of this approach.
Main Body
Lavrov asserted that Washington has openly adopted a "policy of dominance in global energy markets," stating that U.S. actions in Venezuela and Iran are explicitly motivated by oil interests. He claimed that the United States "cares only about its own well-being" and is prepared to defend it through means such as coups, kidnappings, or assassinations of leaders of resource-rich countries. According to Lavrov, this behavior represents a step backward in international law, taking the world back to a period where legal norms were absent. He made explicit reference to two recent U.S. military operations: the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January and the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes at the end of February. Lavrov argued that these actions demonstrate a U.S. willingness to ignore established international conventions to secure natural resources. Lavrov also criticized the diplomatic approach of the United States, recommending that Washington engage in dialogue rather than confrontation. He accused the U.S. of frequently breaking agreements, which he said contributes to strained bilateral relations. His remarks coincided with renewed diplomatic activity concerning Iran: U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are scheduled to travel to Pakistan for talks with Iranian representatives. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the initiative for the meeting originated from Tehran, adding that the U.S. is open to negotiations but not under pressure to reach a deal. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has begun a regional tour to coordinate with partners, though no official confirmation of direct U.S.-Iran talks has been made. In a broader geopolitical context, Lavrov accused the United States of pushing European nations to reduce their reliance on Russian natural gas and described Western policies as an attempt to revert to a "colonial era." He linked these energy disputes to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, suggesting that U.S. actions are part of a larger strategy to undermine Russian influence.
Conclusion
Lavrov's statements underscore persistent tensions between Russia and the United States over energy policy and international law. While the U.S. has not directly responded to his specific allegations, ongoing diplomatic efforts regarding Iran indicate that both sides continue to engage in negotiations despite the strong language used.