BERLIN / WASHINGTON: The government of Germany has strongly criticized the decision by the United States to temporarily ease sanctions on Russian oil shipments currently at sea, calling the move “wrong” amid ongoing tensions over energy supplies and the war in Eastern Europe.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz questioned the motives behind the decision taken by the administration of Donald Trump, suggesting it could undermine Western efforts to pressure Russia economically.
Berlin warned that relaxing restrictions on Russian oil exports—even temporarily—could weaken international sanctions aimed at limiting Moscow’s revenue during the ongoing conflict.
Earlier, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the decision, saying the authorization allowing certain oil shipments already in transit to proceed until April 11 was a limited and carefully targeted measure.
According to Bessent, the step was designed as a “narrowly tailored, short-term measure” intended to stabilize global energy markets as oil prices surged above $100 per barrel amid growing geopolitical tensions.
Energy analysts say rising prices have been fueled by instability in multiple regions, including disruptions to shipping routes and fears of broader conflict affecting global oil supply.
Despite Washington’s explanation, officials in Germany warned that any softening of sanctions could send mixed signals to allies and markets, potentially complicating coordinated Western efforts against Russia.
Leave a Reply