Russia Offers Oil Supply as Indonesia Seeks Energy Security

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Russia has signaled its willingness to supply crude oil to Indonesia’s state-owned energy company Pertamina, as global prices climb following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.

Speaking in Jakarta on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, said Moscow is open to cooperation with “friendly nations” in the oil and gas sector.

“Our President has repeatedly stated that we are ready to work with partner countries whenever they need something. Please contact us, tell us your requirements, and we will discuss how to make it happen,” Ambassador Tolchenov explained, as quoted by Antara.

He noted that while no formal request has yet been received from Pertamina or the Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Russia’s embassy remains open to discussions.

Ambassador Tolchenov also stressed that Moscow’s energy exports are not limited to allies, adding that even Western European nations could purchase Russian oil and gas under long-term contracts.

Indonesian Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed that the government is considering imports from multiple sources, including Russia, as part of a diversification strategy to secure energy supplies amid Middle East instability.

“All countries are possible sources. What matters most is availability and competitive pricing,” Minister Bahlil said, adding that U.S. policy changes have reopened access to Russian oil, which had previously been restricted by sanctions.

The backdrop to these discussions is escalating conflict in the Middle East. On February 28, U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets -- including in Tehran -- prompted retaliatory attacks by Iran on Israel and American military facilities.

The confrontation has led to a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global oil and gas flows and driving up fuel prices worldwide.

Indonesia’s openness to Russian oil imports reflects both the urgency of securing stable supplies and the shifting dynamics of global energy trade in the face of geopolitical tensions. ***