US EditionUS eases some Russian oil sanctions but crude prices stay high
The U.S. exempts 30-day sanctions on Russian oil loaded on tankers to ease price spikes amid supply disruptions, with Russia earning $588 million daily from energy exports, experts say.
- On Friday, March 13, 2026, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a 30-day exemption for Russian oil deliveries loaded on tankers as of Thursday, following an earlier reprieve for refineries in India.
- Recent market volatility surfaced when shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries 20% of global oil, contributed to Brent crude briefly rising above $100 to $103.24 per barrel on Friday.
- Simone Tagliapietra of Bruegel said 'In the short term this slightly increases available supply on the global market, which helps contain the current spike in oil prices', while analysts estimate about 125 million barrels are currently being shipped and Russia's daily earnings reach 510 million euros.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the easing, warning it could provide Russia about $10 billion for the war, while sanctions on Lukoil and Rosneft remain in place.
- Analysts say the limited exemption does not change long-term Russian oil flows as Russia's use of a 'shadow fleet' and prices over $80 per barrel have boosted revenues by 14%.
25 Articles
25 Articles
For the exceptions to the sanctions against Russian oil, US President Trump has to take a lot of criticism from Europe. He does not want to let them sit on him. He is once again aggressive towards the Ukrainian President.
The US Treasury Department has lifted sanctions on the sale of oil and oil derivatives from Russia loaded onto ships before March 12.
In the midst of the energy crisis, US President Donald Trump (79) loosens Russia's sanctions. Will this really make oil cheaper?
While the Brent revolves around 103 dollars, the tycoon grants a 30-day waiver to sanctions. It releases 100 million barrels a day. A patch to calm markets that does not solve the problem. Zelensky, Macron and Merz are outraged. Oil moves but remains attached to the throne of the three digits. The Brent revolves around 103 dollars per barrel, the Wti remains little above 97 dollars. A pause, perhaps technical, perhaps political. We will understa…
To the annoyance of Europeans, the US is loosening sanctions on Russian oil - but the price remains very high, and the hope for an early end to the war is getting smaller and smaller.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 38% of the sources lean Left, 37% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
