Several European leaders have criticized the decision by Donald Trump to ease some U.S. sanctions on Russian oil. The move came as global oil markets face pressure following tensions in the Middle East and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz.
Officials from the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Norway said easing restrictions could weaken international pressure on Russia over the ongoing war in Ukraine.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz argued that sanctions should remain in place until Moscow shows a willingness to negotiate. He also stressed that support for Ukraine must continue despite rising tensions in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, Russian officials welcomed the development, claiming global markets rely heavily on Russian oil. Moscow suggested that easing sanctions reflects the reality that energy stability is difficult to maintain without its exports.
