Russian Official: "Warmonger Narratives" Are False, Points to Soaring Oil Exports

The head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund has criticized what he calls "fake warmonger narratives," arguing they distort global decision-making. He made the statement while highlighting a significant increase in Russian oil exports. Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), said these narratives are "bad for decision-making." He cited data showing Russian seaborne oil exports surged in December to their highest level since April 2022. The comments appear to challenge Western perceptions of Russia's economic isolation following its invasion of Ukraine. By pointing to strong export figures, Dmitriev suggests the Russian economy remains integrated into global energy markets. Dmitriev did not specify the origins of the narratives he criticized. The RDIF is a state-backed fund tasked with attracting foreign investment into Russia.