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Iraqi Ambassador in Russia: Baghdad's Decision to Cancel Oil Contract with Russia is Not Retaliatory

Feb 11, 2026 February 11, 2026 1 min read 📰 VOA Persian
📋 Key Takeaway

Iraq has canceled its oil contract with Lukoil, a major Russian oil company, citing non-fulfillment of obligations. The Iraqi ambassador insists this move is not a retaliation against Russia's recent actions in the UN. This situation highlights the tensions in international relations and economic agreements involving Iraq and Russia.

🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line: Iraq's cancellation of the oil contract with Lukoil underscores the complexities of international relations and economic dependencies in the oil sector.

👥 Key Players

Abbas Khalaf MENTIONED
Iraqi Ambassador to Russia
"As the ambassador, he represents Iraq's diplomatic stance and efforts to maintain strategic alliances, particularly with Russia."
Lukoil MENTIONED
Largest Russian oil company
"Lukoil is a major player in the global oil market and its operations in Iraq are crucial for both countries' economic interests."
Amer Rashid MENTIONED
Iraqi Oil Minister
"He oversees Iraq's oil policy and contracts, making decisions that impact the country's economy and international relations."
Leonid Fedun MENTIONED
Vice President of Lukoil
"His comments reflect the company's perspective and potential legal actions, influencing the corporate response to Iraq's decision."

📰 What Happened

Iraq has canceled its oil contract with Lukoil and two other Russian companies, citing non-fulfillment of contractual obligations. The Iraqi ambassador insists this decision is not a retaliation against Russia's recent actions in the UN.

  • The cancellation involves the development of the West Qurna oil field.
  • Lukoil plans to seek legal recourse if Iraq proceeds with the cancellation.

💡 Why It Matters

🇮🇷 For Iran: Iran may view Iraq's actions as a signal of shifting alliances in the region, potentially impacting its own oil partnerships.
🌍 Regional: This decision could affect regional oil supply dynamics and Iraq's relations with other countries, particularly in the context of OPEC.
🌐 International: Western countries may interpret this as a sign of Iraq distancing itself from Russia, which could influence geopolitical alignments.

📚 Background

Iraq has been navigating its relationships with major powers like Russia and the US, particularly in the context of its oil resources and international sanctions.

Iraq's oil industry Russia's role in Middle Eastern geopolitics
📡 Source: NEUTRAL
📊 Confidence: 70%
The article presents statements from both Iraqi officials and Lukoil, allowing for a balanced view of the situation.

The Iraqi ambassador in Russia denies that Baghdad's decision to cancel an oil contract with the largest Russian oil company is related to Moscow's support for a UN Security Council resolution on disarming Iraq last month. Abbas Khalaf, the Iraqi ambassador in Moscow, attempted to downplay the issue to reporters, stating that the Iraqi government is confident that Russia will remain its strategic ally. The largest Russian oil company, Lukoil, announced on Thursday that it received a letter from the Iraqi Ministry of Oil stating that it has canceled its contract with the company and two other Russian oil companies for the development of the vast 'West Qurna' oil field. Iraqi Oil Minister Amer Rashid stated that Lukoil did not fulfill its contractual obligations. However, Leonid Fedun, Vice President of Lukoil, described Iraq's decision as similar to a retaliatory action for Russia's refusal to use its influence in the Security Council in favor of Iraq, and noted that if Iraq proceeds with its decision, Lukoil will likely seek legal recourse.

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Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →

Translation confidence: 85%

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