What is presented by the West as a move to ostensibly push Russia towards talks on ending the Ukraine conflict “conveniently serves the US’ long-term goal — pushing Asia’s largest consumers, India and China, away from discounted Russian crude, Dr. Hriday Sarma, a professional specializing in international affairs, told Sputnik.
Sanctions Won’t Stop the Flow
Sanctions are unlikely to break the Russia–India–China “energy corridor,” believes the analyst.
“Instead, the restrictions may push Russia, India and China toward more resilient payment systems — yuan or rupee settlements — and new logistics routes insulated from Western influence,” Dr. Sarma speculated.
Europe Pays the Price
*US moves risk spiking EU costs for states still relying on Russian energy via intermediaries like India and Turkiye, noted the expert. He pointed to the fact that Brent crude has already jumped nearly 5% to $65.65 per barrel following the US announcement.
The US, emphasized the analyst, risks punishing its allies, who will face spiking energy costs as American LNG is sold at a premium to boost its own profits.