US treasury issues temporary license for Russian oil sales amid sanctions relief

On April 19, 2026, it was reported that the United States Department of the Treasury issued a general license allowing the sale of Russian crude oil and petroleum products that were loaded onto tankers before April 17. This authorization, which extends through May 16, applies to oil currently stored at sea. Washington previously granted similar temporary exemptions in March to mitigate global price increases linked to the conflict in the Middle East. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the decision, arguing that revenue generated from these sales provides Russia with direct financial resources for its military operations. Zelenskyy estimated that this easing of sanctions could generate $10 billion for Russia, which he stated would be used to fund ongoing attacks. The Ukrainian leader cited statistics claiming that Russia launched over 2,360 drone strikes, 1,320 guided bombs, and nearly 60 missiles within the last week alone. These developments have caused significant friction between Kyiv and Washington regarding the administration of international sanctions.