The United States (US) has renewed a waiver allowing countries to purchase sanctioned Russian oil already at sea, in a move aimed at easing global energy pressures triggered by ongoing geopolitical tensions and the Iran conflict.
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According to the US Department of the Treasury, the waiver permits transactions involving Russian oil loaded onto vessels before a specified cutoff date and will remain in effect until May 16. The decision replaces an earlier 30-day waiver that expired on April 11 and excludes dealings involving countries such as Iran, Cuba, and North Korea.
JUST IN: Two days after saying the U.S. would NOT renew sanctions waivers on Russian or Iranian oil, Bessent’s Treasury quietly extended a license allowing Russian oil transactions for another month. pic.twitter.com/0cAptGntvB
— MeidasTouch (@MeidasTouch) April 18, 2026
The extension comes as oil prices and supply chains face disruption due to instability in the Middle East, particularly linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway’s partial closure during recent conflict significantly impacted global energy flows, prompting calls from several countries for alternative supply measures.
Officials indicated that the waiver is part of broader efforts to stabilize oil markets as negotiations with Iran continue. A Treasury spokesperson said the move aims to ensure sufficient supply reaches global markets during a period of heightened uncertainty.
However, the decision has drawn criticism from US lawmakers, who argue that easing restrictions on Russian oil could undermine sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict. European leaders have also expressed concern, warning that relaxing pressure on Moscow may weaken collective efforts against Russia.
Energy analysts note that global oil prices recently dropped following the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, but markets remain volatile. The ongoing conflict has damaged numerous oil and gas facilities across the region, contributing to what experts describe as one of the most severe energy disruptions in recent history.
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Despite political opposition, the waiver reflects growing pressure on Washington to balance sanctions policy with global energy stability. Observers suggest further extensions could be considered if market volatility persists and supply constraints continue to challenge importing nations.