Russia continues to expand its influence in the Middle East, now playing a key role in Russia’s role in Kurdish oil negotiations. A senior Kurdish official confirmed that Moscow has served as a central mediator in talks on oil exports from the Kurdistan Region.
Dr. Dindar Zebari, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Coordinator of International Advocacy, praised Russia’s ongoing involvement. He noted that Russia’s diplomatic efforts have been vital in helping the KRG address tensions over oil exports involving Baghdad and Ankara.
“In the export of oil from the Kurdistan Region, Russia has played a major role in mediation,” Zebari said. He added that this role benefits both the Kurdistan Region and Türkiye, helping to create space for constructive dialogue and export resumption.
The roots of Russia’s role in Kurdish oil go back years. Dr. Zebari highlighted that the Russian Federation was the first country to open a general consulate in Erbil. Russia’s early diplomatic presence showed its long-term interest in the region’s stability and economic development.
According to Zebari, Russia has consistently followed a dual-track strategy in the Kurdistan Region. This means maintaining political ties while advancing economic cooperation. Moscow’s strategy fits within the broader framework of Iraq-Russia relations and benefits the semi-autonomous Kurdish region.
On the economic front, Zebari specifically mentioned Gazprom as a key player. The Russian energy giant has invested heavily in exploration and pipeline infrastructure in Kurdistan. These investments support both regional growth and international oil flows.
Dr. Zebari also noted that Russia’s role in Kurdish oil has helped balance delicate relations between Erbil, Baghdad, and Türkiye. Ongoing disputes over oil revenue sharing and export authority have long troubled those relationships. Russia’s neutral position and experience in energy diplomacy help manage those tensions.
The KRG is now working hard to restore stable oil exports after months of interruptions caused by legal rulings and political disagreements. Russian mediation is seen as a stabilizing force that could encourage long-term agreements among all parties involved.
With Russia’s support, the KRG hopes to unlock stalled negotiations and ensure consistent oil flow to international markets. This would not only benefit Iraq’s overall economy but also support the Kurdistan Region’s financial independence and development goals.
Zebari emphasized that Russia’s approach—both strategic and economic—offers Kurdistan valuable opportunities. The KRG appears determined to deepen its ties with Moscow while working to resolve energy disputes with its neighbors.