Washington: The United States has temporarily allowed countries to buy certain shipments of Russian oil despite ongoing sanctions, in a move aimed at easing pressure on global energy markets during the current geopolitical crisis.
The US Treasury issued a special license allowing the sale of Russian oil that is already loaded on tankers at sea. The permission will remain valid for 30 days and is expected to run until around April 11, 2026.
Officials said the measure is limited and does not remove the broader sanctions imposed on Russia. Instead, it is designed to help stabilize the oil market as global supply faces disruptions linked to tensions and conflict in the Middle East.
Energy markets have been under pressure in recent weeks as instability in the Persian Gulf region raised fears about disruptions to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important routes for global crude oil transport. The uncertainty has pushed international oil prices above 100 dollars per barrel.
The temporary waiver allows the sale of roughly 120 to 128 million barrels of Russian oil that are already in transit on ships. Analysts say this amount represents about five to six days of global oil supply and could help reduce immediate shortages in the market.
The permission mainly applies to oil that had already been exported before the new restrictions tightened. It does not allow new Russian oil exports beyond the scope of existing sanctions.
Several countries that depend heavily on imported crude oil, including India, may benefit from the waiver. These countries have continued to buy discounted Russian oil since Western sanctions were imposed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The decision has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and Western officials who argue that allowing Russian oil sales could weaken international pressure on Moscow. They say sanctions were meant to reduce Russia’s energy revenue and influence.
However, US officials say the step is temporary and necessary to prevent a sudden shock in global energy markets. They emphasized that the broader sanctions policy against Russia remains in place.
Energy analysts say the move reflects growing concern among governments about the stability of global oil supplies as geopolitical tensions continue to affect major energy producing regions.