Russia's Energy Interests in the Central Andes: Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador

This report examines the increasing energy influence of Russia in the Central Andes, namely in Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, and highlights the negative outcomes associated with this influence. In the last few years, Russia has significantly expanded its presence in the region through energy, taking advantage of geopolitical instability and economic vulnerabilities. Key developments include Russia’s involvement in Bolivia’s energy sector, particularly oil and lithium, particularly through its large state-controlled companies, Gazprom and Rosatom. Although Russian influence is most pronounced in Bolivia, changing electoral and geopolitical dynamics in Peru and Ecuador could potentially increase Russian influence in those two countries in the future.