Indonesia to continue Russian crude imports despite easing tensions

Indonesia will continue importing crude oil from Russia despite easing tensions in the Middle East and plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR).

MEMR spokesperson Dwi Anggia said the procurement of Russian crude remains part of the government's strategy to strengthen national energy reserves.

"What is certain is that the President's directive is clear: to continue strengthening our national energy reserves through various means, including importing crude oil from Russia. This will continue and remains in process," Dwi told a press conference on Wednesday.

The policy follows Presidential Regulation No. 26 of 2026 on the procurement of crude oil, fuel oil and liquefied petroleum gas for national energy security. Under the regulation, several entities, including the National Oil and Gas Testing Agency (Lemigas), have been authorized to import crude oil.

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia previously assigned Lemigas to import Russian crude as part of a plan to import 150 million barrels in stages through the end of 2026, following agreements reached during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Russia.

Dwi said Indonesia is also seeking crude supplies from other countries as part of its diversification strategy.

"We are also sourcing from countries in Africa, including Nigeria and Angola, as well as from the United States. Whatever the source, we will continue pursuing efforts to strengthen our national energy stock," she said.

The government has been pursuing supply diversification following directives from President Prabowo and the energy minister to strengthen national energy reserves and reduce supply risks.

Editing by Alexander Ginting