Govt. explores Russian fuel supply after US lifts sanctions

Saturday, 14 March 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Follows India’s favourable response to Sri Lanka’s fuel request

Days after securing a favourable response from India to help replenish its fuel stocks, Sri Lanka has begun discussions with Russia on securing additional fuel supplies as concerns grow over disruptions to global energy markets due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

This was in response to the lifting of US sanctions imposed on Russia to purchase Russian oil as a solution to the breakdown of fuel supply networks due to the conflict situation in the Middle East region.

Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath yesterday met Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Levan Dzhagaryan at the Foreign Ministry to discuss the possibility of importing Russian oil.

According to a statement from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Minister Herath raised the possibility of obtaining Russian fuel supplies as an additional measure to maintain uninterrupted fuel distribution in the country.

Ambassador Dzhagaryan said he would immediately convey Sri Lanka’s request to the Russian Government and coordinate with relevant institutions to explore the necessary arrangements.

He also noted that Russia remains ready to assist Sri Lanka whenever required.