MOSCOW, October 27. /TASS/. The position taken by some American politicians against the diesel deal with Russia is a bit surprising, as they are not acting in the best interests of their own citizens, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told reporters on the sidelines of the GECF summit.

In particular, Novak announced that a fourth tanker carrying diesel is set to depart from Russia on October 28.

He also noted that liquefied natural gas (LNG) costs more for China than natural gas supplied from Russia.

TASS has compiled the key statements made by the deputy prime minister.

Diesel shipments to the US

Russia has already dispatched three tankers carrying diesel to the US, and they are currently en route: "There are three ships at the moment. The fourth has not yet departed."

A fourth diesel tanker is scheduled to depart from Russia on October 28: "We expect it to leave on the 28th."

American politicians who have come out in opposition of the diesel deal with Russia are doing their citizens a disservice: "Overall, it is certainly surprising to see the stance taken by Democrats, who speak out – or even take action – in a way that is not in the best interests of the residents of the United States of America."

On resumption of gas supplies to Europe

Russia is ready to resume gas supplies to Europe if European nations wish to do so: "For our part, we are ready. We have always been reliable suppliers."

Russia is capable of redirecting its entire gas volume to other markets if Europe rejects it: "If Europe chooses not to buy, we have destinations to sell our gas. You are aware that in recent years we have developed infrastructure to supply countries where consumption is actively increasing and economies are growing. Consequently, Russia faces no issues in this regard, the problem lies more with Europe."

Overpaying for LNG

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is more costly for China than natural gas sourced from Russia: "From an economic perspective, it is currently far more expensive for them. In the face of gas shortages and a lack of affordable energy resources, consumers end up overpaying due to shortages and rising prices, buying more expensive liquefied natural gas with longer logistical costs and so on."

On future of the Nord Stream pipelines

In the long term, the Nord Stream pipelines will be needed by Europe for gas supplies: "Looking ahead, the development of gas pipeline infrastructure - which began in the 1970s and has continued into this century - is beneficial for both Europe and Russia. Russia is energy-independent and has the capacity to ensure the energy security of other countries that lack their own energy resources, Europe in particular. Therefore, I believe that from a long-term, strategic perspective, these pipelines will likely remain in demand."