Global energy supplies have been strained by multiple conflicts, including the continuing Russia–Ukraine war, Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, and the US–Iran war, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Speaking while travelling on an official visit to Uzbekistan and onward to India, Rubio said countries such as India are meeting their energy needs through available alternatives in a disrupted market. In that context, he noted, it would be difficult for India to halt energy imports from Russia “overnight.”
The remarks come amid controversy in the US after President Donald Trump decided to enter into an agreement to import crude oil from Russia, citing national interest, and temporarily eased sanctions soon after the deal.
Separately, the report said Trump has pushed through a bill in the US Parliament proposing a 100% import tariff on five countries, including India and China, that import Russian crude, as part of efforts linked to ending the Ukraine war.
Rubio added that under the “Lindsey O. Graham” law aimed at imposing tough economic sanctions on Russia and Iran, certain exemptions are being considered in the national interest. He said Trump has sought up to 60 days to study the potential impact of sanctions on Russia and tariffs on countries like India on the US economy.
