Syria Offers to Cut Russian Oil Imports in Sanctions Talks with US, Sources Say

Syria has communicated to the United States its willingness to drastically reduce imports of Russian oil, a major concession in ongoing discussions aimed at removing Damascus from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

This potential shift in energy policy could significantly alter Syria's supply chain, as the country has become heavily dependent on Russian crude. For Washington, it represents a new avenue to counter Moscow's economic influence in the region.

A Bargaining Chip for Sanctions Relief

According to a Syrian source with direct knowledge of the talks, a U.S. official, and another person briefed on the matter, senior Syrian officials have made the offer in recent months. The primary goal for Damascus is the removal of the State Sponsor of Terrorism (SST) designation, a label in place since 1979 and the last major U.S. sanctions regime on the country.

The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, noted that the U.S. did not present the oil import reduction as a formal precondition. However, the Syrian source stated that U.S. officials suggested that ending Russian oil purchases would "improve the chances of lifting the SST designation quickly and without complications." In response, a White House official said there was no direct link between the two issues.

Syria's Energy Dilemma

A sharp reduction in Russian oil presents a significant challenge for Syria. Russian shipments to the country have jumped 75% this year to approximately 60,000 barrels per day, making Moscow its dominant crude supplier.

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• Supply Risk: Analysts warn that replacing this volume cannot happen overnight without risking fuel shortages or higher import costs.
• Seeking Alternatives: A Syrian energy official told Reuters that Damascus is already seeking new suppliers. The country has reportedly held discussions with French major TotalEnergies for an offshore exploration contract and signed a deal with ConocoPhillips and Novaterra to revive gas production.

"Today, Syria relies on Russian oil out of necessity, not preference," the Syrian source told Reuters, adding that Syrian officials have told the U.S. that lifting the SST designation would allow them to build a more diverse energy supply network.

Geopolitical Pivot

The discussions come as the U.S. signals a desire for Syria to distance itself from Moscow. On July 8, the Trump administration informed Congress of its intent to remove Syria from the SST list, initiating a 45-day review period.

The U.S. Congress has also directed the Pentagon to assess options for reducing Russia’s military and economic influence in Syria. A U.S. State Department official said Washington was "encouraging Syria to engage trusted corporate partners — especially U.S. firms — during the country’s recovery and reconstruction process."