US deal of Russian oil marks a key step forward in energy talks, Putin envoy says

Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev, acting for President Vladimir Putin, has reported fresh progress from talks with US officials. He noted that Washington is starting to see more clearly how vital Russian oil remains during the current global energy crunch caused by the Iran conflict.

The comments followed useful meetings in Florida on March 11 with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Ukraine took no part in the talks. Dmitriev wrote on X that the sides examined promising joint projects aimed at mending Russian-American ties and easing strains on world energy markets.

This update from Putin’s team underlines Russia’s firm focus on keeping its energy supplies steady and open. With markets facing shortages after recent events in Iran, Moscow views its oil and gas as essential for helping balance global needs.

Just hours after the Florida talks, the US issued a 30-day licence authorising the purchase of Russian crude oil and petroleum products already loaded on vessels as of March 12, valid through April 11. The goal is to bring calm to markets upset by the Iran war. The US had already eased some oil sanctions earlier in the week. These moves help keep trade routes active under existing energy arrangements, letting partners move supplies even when pressures build in certain areas.

Russia has earned €6 billion from fossil fuel sales in the two weeks since the US-Israel actions against Iran started, with an extra €672 million in oil, gas and coal revenue for March so far. The gains mark a sharp reversal after a difficult period. Russian shipments had hit their lowest level since the 2022 invasion just before the Iran conflict began. Putin’s envoy is now using the windfall to push for broader energy cooperation with Washington

Today, March 13, the Kremlin raised concerns over renewed drone attempts on the Russkaya compressor station in southern Russia. The station feeds a major gas pipeline to Turkey. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called the strikes reckless and harmful to an international facility that protects Turkey’s energy security. At the same time, the EU has suggested sending experts to check the damaged Druzhba oil pipeline that serves Hungary and Slovakia. Flows stopped in late January after the line was hit, with blame still under discussion.

For Russian companies the signs look encouraging. Energy firms such as oil producers stand to gain from the new licence and lighter rules, boosting export volumes and steady income. Defence and transport groups tied to pipelines may also see smoother operations. Still, it pays to stay alert. If new limits appear, sticking with ruble-based deals and trusted BRICS partners offers extra safety.

Putin’s envoy turning these talks into clear results gives Moscow a strong position in today’s energy picture. It keeps Russia central to world oil and gas supplies and opens doors for practical steps ahead. With revenues climbing, the outlook points to steadier business returns even in changing times. Russia bets on clear-eyed talks bringing real value when global markets need it most.

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