India Criticizes Global Energy Sanctions And Supply Chokepoints At G20 Meet

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has strongly criticized disruptions in global oil supplies caused by sanctions and chokepoints, warning that deliberate attacks on energy infrastructure are a calculated strategy to hold prices hostage. Speaking at the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Atlanta on Friday, October 30, 2026, Mr. Jaishankar stated that the world faces an energy crisis driven by unpredictability and high costs rather than a lack of production. The meeting was convened by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and took place amid American sanctions on Iranian oil, disruptions in West Asia, and a decision to lift sanctions on Russian diesel. Mr. Jaishankar noted that market distortions are happening with greater frequency and complexity, showing little regard for low-income nations. He criticized selective carve-outs and convenient distinctions drawn between oil and gas, adding that India needs reliable LPG supplies for clean cooking.

Context

Global energy markets rely heavily on smooth supply chains and open trade routes to keep prices stable for developing economies. Disruptions in major shipping regions or policy shifts from large global powers directly impact fuel import costs and domestic inflation in emerging nations like India.