Russia may buy aluminium for state stocks to support Rusal

NOVOSIBIRSK, Russia Aug 28 (Reuters): Russia has a plan to support world No.2 aluminium producer Rusal against US sanctions put in place in April, including by purchasing the metal for state stocks, Industry Minister Denis Manturov told reporters on Tuesday.

The US Treasury Department placed Russian businessman Oleg Deripaska and Rusal, which he controls, on a blacklist that month, freezing the bulk of the company's exports, paralyzing its supply chain and scaring off many customers.

The sanctions caused major disruptions to global aluminium markets, although Rusal's international customers were given until Oct. 23 to wind down business with the company.