Dhaka, Thursday, Apr 16, 2026
Russia has signalled readiness to offset any global oil supply disruptions triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov saying Moscow can support China and other partners if Iranian exports are curtailed.Speaking during a two-day official visit to China, Lavrov said Russia has the capacity to “make up for resource shortages” faced by countries willing to cooperate with Moscow on “an equal and mutually beneficial basis.”His remarks come as the United States intensifies efforts to restrict Iran’s oil flows following renewed conflict in the region. US President Donald Trump recently announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—a key maritime chokepoint that handles about 20% of global oil trade—after diplomatic efforts with Iran failed.Iran responded by declaring restrictions on “enemy ships” and demanding recognition of its sovereignty over the waterway, including the right to impose transit tolls.Lavrov accused Washington and its ally Israel of targeting ...
