Lavrov claims US uses “dirty methods” to suppress rivals

(MENAFN) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the United States of using “dirty methods” to suppress competitors, including punitive tariffs of up to 500% and politically motivated sanctions. Speaking in an interview with Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB, Lavrov described the US approach as a “diktat,” aimed at limiting China’s growing influence and maintaining US global dominance.

He cited the ongoing US-China trade conflict, noting that cumulative tariffs on certain Chinese goods have reached or exceeded 100%. He also mentioned the proposed Sanctioning Russia Act, which could impose up to 500% tariffs on countries continuing to purchase Russian energy, targeting India and China.

Lavrov further criticized US sanctions on Russian companies such as Lukoil and Rosneft, arguing that Washington is resorting to anti-democratic and anti-market tactics as its global influence wanes.

The remarks came ahead of talks between Lavrov and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, expected to focus on energy cooperation and trade. Russia and Iran, both under Western sanctions, have strengthened their strategic partnership this year, with multiple high-level meetings between Presidents Putin and Pezeshkian.

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