United States grants temporary authorization for Russian oil sales

The United States government has issued a general license permitting the sale of Russian crude oil and petroleum products stored on tankers. This authorization applies exclusively to shipments loaded before March 12, 2026. The exception is set to expire on April 11, 2026. U.S. officials stated the measure aims to stabilize global energy markets amid rising prices following regional conflicts. Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev commented on the decision, asserting that global energy stability is unattainable without Russian oil supplies. While the U.S. frames the move as a stabilization effort, Russian officials interpret the decision as an admission of the essential role Russian energy plays in the global market. The announcement was made public by the U.S. State Department.