Bangladesh, Sri Lanka Seek US Waiver To Import Russian Fuel Amid Iran War Shock

Last Updated:April 02, 2026, 09:25 IST

Bangladesh and Sri Lanka seek US waivers to import Russian fuel as the Iran war disrupts oil markets, both nations pursue deals with Moscow to ease severe energy shortages

Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have approached the United States seeking waivers to import fuel from Russia, as the ongoing Iran war disrupts global energy markets and strains supplies for developing economies, reports said. Follow Live Updates Here

The move comes as both countries face rising fuel costs and supply uncertainty following the conflict in West Asia, which has impacted oil flows and prices globally.

Bangladesh Seeks Waiver For Russian Diesel

Bangladesh has formally reached out to Washington for a waiver to import Russian fuel, similar to the relaxation recently granted to India to ease supply disruptions, according to reports.

Dhaka is looking to import up to 600,000 tonnes of Russian diesel as it navigates the energy crunch. The proposal was discussed during a recent meeting between Russian Ambassador Alexander Khozin and Bangladesh’s power and energy minister.

Also Read: Hormuz At Risk, Markets On Edge: As Trump Hints At Longer Iran War, India Builds Energy Buffers

Officials also explored broader cooperation in gas and nuclear energy, along with fuel supply arrangements, reports added.

Sri Lanka In Talks With Russia For Oil Supplies

Sri Lanka has also stepped up efforts to secure Russian fuel, holding talks in Colombo with visiting Russian Deputy Energy Minister Roman Marshavin.

Authorities said discussions are focused on purchasing both crude and refined petroleum products to meet the country’s short-term energy needs and strengthen long-term cooperation.

The talks are expected to continue at the highest levels, including with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, with a decision likely soon, officials said.

Energy Crisis Deepens

Sri Lanka has already introduced fuel rationing and a four-day work week for the state sector to conserve energy, while assuring supplies until mid-May.

Also Read: Is Iran War Ending Soon? Donald Trump’s Address To Nation Sends Mixed Signals

Officials said the country is looking to secure fuel for at least three months from Russia, even as payment mechanisms remain under discussion due to Moscow’s preference for transactions in roubles or yuan.

War-Driven Market Disruptions

The outreach by both nations comes as the US has eased certain sanctions to allow purchases of Russian oil already in transit, in a bid to stabilise global supply amid the Iran conflict.

Data cited in reports showed Russia’s oil revenues surged in the early weeks of the war, highlighting shifting trade flows.

With energy markets under pressure, smaller economies like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are increasingly seeking alternative supply routes to manage shortages and rising costs.

News world Bangladesh, Sri Lanka Seek US Waiver To Import Russian Fuel Amid Iran War Shock

Read More