New global order requires alternatives to Western systems: Russian Official

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has extended beyond military conflict, with the U.S. and European Union imposing economic sanctions on Russia.

These sanctions have driven Russia to explore alternative avenues, especially in the energy sector, one of its largest revenue sources. Russia’s Deputy Energy Minister Pavel Sorokin spoke at the Russia Energy Week, where discussions centered on new partnerships and alternative systems amid ongoing sanctions.

Sorokin explained Russia’s approach to overcoming the limitations imposed by Western sanctions and highlighted the development of Russia’s new energy strategy, stating that trade has consistently been prioritized over politics.

Shift toward self-reliance

“Russia has always been one of the largest players in the global energy market. Even during the Soviet era, we prioritized trade over politics, continuing to supply gas and oil to our partners, even in tense times. Despite recent illegal sanctions, we continued these supplies until Western countries refused to accept them,” Sorokin said.

He outlined Russia’s strategy to maintain its position in the global energy market by focusing on self-reliance and technological independence.

“In this new world order, where we are seeing the rise of a decentralized, multipolar world, we must rely on our technology. This is at the core of our new energy strategy,” he added.

Global south in search of alternatives

Sorokin emphasized the need for alternatives to Western systems, particularly for the majority of the global population.

“With a global population of 8 billion, 7 billion people now require alternatives. They cannot rely on financial and legal systems controlled by Western countries, which have shown they do not respect previously agreed contracts. This proves the need for an alternative,” he noted.

He also criticized the dominance of Western mechanisms such as financial systems, legal structures, and technological standards, which have not provided fair competition or representation for many countries.

“The system created by Western countries has now evolved into a structure that aims to destroy competition, and that’s why alternative systems are crucial for a fair global market,” Sorokin said.

SWIFT as economic weapon

Discussing the sanctions and their impact on financial systems, Sorokin highlighted the misuse of SWIFT as an economic weapon.

“We’ve seen how the SWIFT system was used as an economic weapon. We’re fortunate to be a self-sufficient country, but some nations are not. For them, being cut off from the financial system could be disastrous,” he said.

“No one should have the right to deprive others of their freedom to travel, communicate, or make purchases,” Sorokin argued.

Impact on Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant

Addressing concerns about the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, Sorokin reassured that Russia remains committed to its energy partnership with Türkiye.

“Türkiye is an important neighbor and commercial partner. We have built constructive and mutually beneficial relations in the energy sector,” he said.

“Despite sanctions, we believe these issues will be resolved quickly through alternative mechanisms. We also believe that European interference is unwarranted, and once we establish alternative systems, such interventions will no longer be possible,” he stated.

Sorokin concluded by reaffirming Russia’s commitment to strengthening its energy strategy and developing alternative systems that can withstand external pressures.