The Russian Federation is actively considering supplying energy resources to Sri Lanka to help avert a potential crisis amid the escalating Middle East conflict, visiting Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko said at a Pathfinder Foundation-hosted event held at the Taj Samudra in Colombo today.

Discussions in this regard are still ongoing. “We believe our response would be positive,” he said.

The Deputy Minister noted that tourist arrivals from Russia to Sri Lanka are picking up and said increased direct flights could further boost numbers.

He also observed that the ongoing Middle East conflict is having serious global repercussions, with many countries, including those in Asia, such as Sri Lanka, affected by supply chain disruptions.

While noting that Russia has not yet been significantly impacted, he cautioned that a prolonged conflict could have wider consequences.

Rudenko further claimed that Iran was not responsible for initiating the conflict, attributing its origins to other parties.

Commenting on the global response, he described the United Nations as ineffective in addressing the crisis and stressed the need to strengthen the institution to help reshape the current world order. “We will take a lead in this regard,” he said.

He added that although Russia possesses nuclear energy capabilities, these are not intended for use in warfare.