Agency warned of severe economic impact before fuel crisis

Russian outlets present the crisis as proof that US-led policies in the Middle East have backfired and now threaten Western economies. They highlight warnings that the United States itself could be hit very hard, while suggesting energy producers outside the conflict zone stand to gain. Future coverage is likely to stress Russia’s role as an alternative supplier and to downplay Western efforts to manage the shock.

• •Russian commentary says US and Israeli actions against Iran triggered an energy shock that now boomerangs on Western economies.
• •Reports emphasize a Wall Street Journal assessment that the global energy crisis is about to hit the United States very hard.
• •Articles compare the current situation to the 1970s oil crisis and warn of similar economic pain for Western countries.
• •Coverage suggests energy exporters not directly involved in the Iran war, including Russia, could benefit from higher prices and new customers.
• •Russian outlets argue that Western sanctions and past energy policies left Europe and the US more exposed to this supply disruption.