The U.S. is easing sanctions on Russian oil again: what is known about the decision
19 May 01:27
The United States is once again extending a temporary easing of sanctions on Russian seaborne oil. This was announced by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, according to "Komersant Ukrainian"
The U.S. Treasury Department is issuing a temporary 30-day general license. It applies to Russian oil that has already been loaded onto tankers and is effectively “stuck” at sea.
According to Reuters, this is yet another extension of the sanctions exemption, which allows for the purchase of Russian seaborne oil amid supply disruptions caused by the war in Iran and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
At the same time, the permission is temporary and does not mean a complete lifting of oil sanctions against Russia.
Why the U.S. took this step
Washington explains the decision by citing requests from several of the most energy-vulnerable countries. They asked for more time to purchase fuel due to market instability and supply disruptions.
Scott Bessent stated that extending the exemption should provide “additional flexibility” and allow the U.S. to issue individual special licenses to specific countries if necessary.
The decision was made against the backdrop of a shortage of oil supplies, which has worsened due to the war involving Iran.
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The oil market remains under pressure
The global oil market remains volatile due to risks to supplies from the Middle East. One of the key factors is the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil supplies passes.
Reuters reports that Brent crude prices have risen amid concerns about supply constraints. This is why the U.S. is trying to avoid a sharp shortage of raw materials and excessive price increases.
This is not the first relaxation
The U.S. first introduced a temporary exemption in March 2026. At that time, it allowed countries to purchase Russian oil and petroleum products that were on ships at sea. Washington explained this by the need to stabilize the global energy market.
In April, the U.S. extended the exemption until May 16, although Bessent had previously stated that Washington did not plan to renew such permits.
Which countries requested the exemption
According to media reports, certain countries that depend on energy imports requested an extension of the temporary permit. Reuters reports mention energy-vulnerable states that need more time to purchase fuel due to supply disruptions.
India and Indonesia were among the countries believed to have approached Washington.
Will this help Russia
The U.S. emphasizes that the decision is aimed at stabilizing the market and supporting countries that are most dependent on energy imports.
At the same time, critics of this move argue that even a temporary easing of restrictions could create additional opportunities for Russia to generate revenue from oil sales.
Reuters reports that Democratic senators have criticized this decision, believing it could financially aid Russia in its war against Ukraine.
Why China is mentioned
The U.S. Treasury Department also explains that the mechanism is intended to help direct available oil supplies to the countries that need it most and reduce China’s ability to stockpile cheap Russian oil.
The Associated Press notes that Bessent justified the decision specifically by citing aid to poorer and more vulnerable countries, as well as the desire to prevent cheap oil from being concentrated in China’s hands.
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