Warning Targeting China and India... US Energy Secretary Says Sanctions Possible on Russian Oil Importing Countries

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] The U.S. administration under Joe Biden has indicated that it may expand its sanctions on Russia to include third countries that purchase Russian oil.

According to major foreign media, Jennifer Granholm, U.S. Secretary of Energy, said at a press conference on the 19th (local time) in response to a question about the possibility of the U.S. government imposing secondary boycotts (third-party sanctions) related to the Russian crude oil embargo, "It is certain that it is not excluded from discussions." A secondary boycott refers to holding third parties who trade with sanctioned entities responsible for violations as well.

This statement is interpreted as a kind of warning aimed at countries that could economically cooperate with Russia. Pro-Russian countries such as China and India are increasing their imports by purchasing Russian crude oil at discounted prices.

The U.S. has previously imposed such secondary boycotts on countries importing oil from Iran, which was under sanctions. However, with the midterm elections approaching, the Biden administration cannot ignore the fact that expanding sanctions on Russia could further raise international oil prices and increase inflationary pressures. Secretary Granholm also said, "The U.S. government is maintaining a cautious stance" and "We do not want the public to suffer due to fuel costs."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.