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US extends Russian oil sale waiver despite Ukrainian objections
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has sharply criticized a U.S. decision to prolong a waiver allowing the sale of Russian oil already at sea, warning that every dollar spent on Russian energy funds Moscow's war effort. The extension, announced on Friday, permits purchases of Russian oil and petroleum products loaded on vessels until 16 May.
U.S. justifies move as energy market stabilizer
The Biden administration defended the waiver, stating it aims to ease global energy supply disruptions triggered by the escalating conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The U.S. argued the measure would ensure oil remains accessible to nations in need while diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war accelerate.
Zelensky warns of $10bn windfall for Moscow
In a Sunday address, Zelensky condemned the decision, asserting that Russia operates a "shadow fleet" of over 110 tankers carrying more than 12 million tons of oil. He claimed the sale of these cargoes could generate $10 billion (£7.4 billion) for the Kremlin, directly financing strikes against Ukraine. Zelensky did not provide the source of these figures.
"Every dollar paid for Russian oil is money for the war."
Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
Energy markets roiled by Strait of Hormuz closure
Iran's retaliation for U.S. and Israeli strikes has included virtually sealing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments. The closure has sparked fears of a global recession if the route remains blocked, exacerbating volatility in energy markets.
Ukraine suffers deadliest attack in months
Zelensky highlighted the human cost of Russia's war machine, noting that over the past week alone, Moscow launched more than 2,360 attack drones, 1,320 guided aerial bombs, and nearly 60 missiles at Ukrainian cities. The deadliest strike occurred on 15 April, when over 700 drones and missiles killed at least 18 people in a single night.
Stalemate persists as Ukraine targets Russian energy
Despite Ukrainian counterattacks, particularly against Russian energy infrastructure, the war has reached a stalemate. Russia currently occupies roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory. Diplomatic efforts led by the U.S. to end the conflict have stalled due to the broader regional crisis involving Iran.
European allies join Ukraine in condemning waiver
The U.S. decision, initially announced on 13 March, drew sharp criticism from Zelensky's European allies, who view the waiver as undermining the sanctions regime designed to cripple Russia's war economy.
