Kremlin says no OPEC+ output changes on agenda despite Mideast crisis

No initiatives to change oil production volumes within the OPEC+ framework are currently on the agenda, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday.

Asked at a press briefing in Moscow whether the coalition of oil-producing countries plans to adjust production amid the Middle East crisis, Peskov said oil demand is growing.

“As you know, we are currently making our contribution to stabilizing prices and minimizing the consequences of the crisis for the global energy sector. Russia continues to supply oil. Demand is growing, while the volume of oil offered on the market is not increasing -- on the contrary, it is shrinking,” he said.

Asked specifically about the OPEC+ position, he said: “No other initiatives are on the agenda right now.”

The official declined to comment on flooding in Russia’s Dagestan region, saying only that President Vladimir Putin has instructed authorities to help residents restore their housing.

Asked about arrests at one of Russia’s biggest publishing houses, Eksmo, Peskov said such questions should be directed to law enforcement officials.

As for Russia’s participation in the G20 summit in the US, he said no decision has yet been made on who will represent the country.

“Work on the G20 track continues. Closer to the summit, a decision will be made on the format of our participation,” Peskov said.