The United States has extended a short-term sanctions waiver allowing countries to continue purchasing Russian oil that was already loaded onto ships before the cutoff date, a move aimed at preventing disruption in global energy markets.
According to officials, the waiver applies only to crude oil and petroleum products that were already in transit as of April 17, 2026. These shipments will now be allowed to be delivered and completed under a temporary authorisation that runs until May 16.
The decision effectively replaces an earlier waiver that had expired earlier this month. It comes after a period of uncertainty in global oil trade, with governments and refiners closely watching how sanctions on Russia could impact supply chains and fuel prices.
US authorities clarified that the exemption is narrowly defined and does not permit new transactions or fresh purchases of Russian oil. It is limited strictly to cargoes already loaded and moving through international waters.
The waiver is also designed to avoid sudden shocks in the oil market. Officials argue that blocking shipments already in transit could disrupt contracts, create logistical bottlenecks, and further tighten global supply at a sensitive time for energy markets.
The move follows broader fluctuations in global oil prices driven by geopolitical tensions and supply concerns. Recent volatility has already led to temporary measures aimed at stabilising energy flows and preventing sharp price spikes.
At the same time, the decision has drawn criticism from some quarters, with opponents arguing that it may indirectly ease pressure on Russia’s export revenues. However, US officials maintain that the measure does not significantly benefit Russia, as it applies only to oil that has already been extracted, sold, and shipped.
Countries that rely heavily on imported crude, including several major Asian economies, are expected to benefit from the continued arrival of these shipments, ensuring short-term supply stability.
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