politics
February 21, 2026
Press review: India to continue buying Russian oil as US amasses major force near Iran
Top stories from the Russian press on Friday, February 20th

TL;DR
- India will continue to purchase Russian oil, prioritizing its energy security and economic interests over US pressure.
- European Union gas reserves have fallen to a four-year low, increasing the risk of a summer gas crisis.
- The US is assembling its largest regional naval and air presence since the Iraq invasion, near Iran, potentially impacting global oil prices.
- Ukraine's President Zelensky has proposed elections and a ceasefire, though experts view these as rhetorical responses with a meeting with Putin deemed unlikely.
- Brent crude oil prices have risen above $71 per barrel due to US military buildup in the Middle East and expected action against Iran.
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