MOSCOW (Feb 10, 2026) – Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has launched a sharp verbal attack on the Trump administration, accusing Washington of using “coercive” measures to dismantle India’s energy ties with Moscow.
The statement follows President Donald Trump’s announcement that the new US-India Interim Trade Deal hinges on New Delhi halting its Russian oil imports.
Key Claims by Sergei Lavrov
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The Energy “War”: Lavrov accused the US of waging a “war against tankers” and violating the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to achieve global economic dominance.
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The Price Trap: He claimed the US is forcing partners like India to abandon “cheap, affordable” Russian energy in favor of US LNG at “exorbitant prices.”
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The Ukraine Context: Lavrov revealed that during 2025 talks in Anchorage, Moscow had accepted US proposals regarding Ukraine, yet Washington responded with fresh sanctions and trade bans rather than cooperation.
India’s Balancing Act
While the US celebrates the trade deal, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been more measured:
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National Interest: India maintains that its energy policy is driven by affordability, availability, and reliability.
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Inflation Concerns: As a net importer, the government emphasized the need to protect Indian consumers from the inflationary impact of high energy costs.
Strategic Friction Points
| Issue | Russia’s Perspective | US Perspective |
| Tariffs | Seen as “artificial obstacles” and illegal coercion. | Used as leverage to ensure “reciprocal trade.” |
| Oil Trade | A mutually beneficial resource for developing nations. | A revenue stream for Russia that must be choked. |
| Energy Source | Cheap Russian crude for stability. | US LNG and crude to reduce trade deficits. |
