India Criticises Global Energy Disruptions Caused by Sanctions and Chokepoints at G20 Meeting

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed strong disapproval of disruptions in global oil supplies driven by sanctions and chokepoints, stating that deliberate attacks on energy trade and infrastructure form a calculated strategy to hold prices hostage.

Speaking at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Atlanta on Friday, October 30, 2026, Mr. Jaishankar highlighted that the world faces an energy crisis characterised by unpredictability, disruption, unaffordable costs, and access challenges rather than a lack of production. The meeting was convened by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Key Highlights from the G20 Meeting

• Sanctions and Chokepoints: Mr. Jaishankar noted that continuous distortions of energy markets through obstacles and sanctions occur with increasing frequency and wider impact, showing little regard for low-income countries.
• Selective Policies: The Minister pointed out that convenient distinctions are drawn between oil and gas, remarking that selective carve-outs speak for themselves.
• Clean Energy and Minerals: Reaffirming India's need for reliable LPG supplies for clean cooking, he highlighted the National Mission on critical minerals and proposed a G20 Critical Minerals Circularity Initiative.

Practical Implications and Verification

• Energy Markets: The discussions underscore ongoing international debates regarding sanctions on Iranian oil, Russian diesel, and broader energy supply stability.
• How to Verify: Official statements and further updates regarding India's foreign policy stances can be cross-checked through official releases from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and reports from accredited diplomatic correspondents covering multilateral forums.