Russia remains willing to supply crude oil to India despite rising global tensions linked to the West Asia conflict, Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said Thursday, emphasizing that New Delhi retains full discretion over its energy sourcing decisions.

Speaking to reporters in the capital, Alipov called for an immediate de-escalation of hostilities in the region. “The resolution is always through negotiations. The conflict should stop as soon as possible,” he said, adding that questions about the duration of the war should be directed to the United States.

His remarks come amid mounting concerns over the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Any prolonged disruption in the waterway could sharply increase crude prices worldwide and strain energy-importing nations, including India.

“It’s up to India to decide on supplies and supply sources. We have always been open toward supplying oil to India,” Alipov stated, reaffirming Moscow’s readiness to maintain energy cooperation.

On February 28, Russia condemned what it described as an “unprovoked” armed attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, stressing the need for a diplomatic solution. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation confirmed that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held a phone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi at Tehran’s request.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Araghchi briefed Lavrov on Iran’s response to what Tehran called US-Israeli aggression, which it claims derailed ongoing negotiations over its nuclear program. Iran has also announced plans to convene an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council.

Lavrov condemned the strikes as violations of international law and warned of serious consequences for regional and global stability. He called for an immediate halt to attacks and a return to political and diplomatic engagement. Russia, he said, remains prepared to facilitate peaceful solutions, including through the United Nations framework, based on mutual respect and balanced interests.

The latest escalation follows joint US-Israel strikes targeting Iran’s missile capabilities and military infrastructure. The conflict has since expanded, raising fears of broader instability across West Asia and renewed volatility in global energy markets.