Ukraine, EU allies slam US decision to roll back Russia oil sanctions

In March 2026, Ukraine and its European allies criticized the United States' decision to partially roll back sanctions against Russia. The decision, made by the Trump administration, allows countries a 30-day waiver to purchase sanctioned Russian oil and petroleum products stranded at sea. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated the move would strengthen Russia's position and provide billions for its war efforts, hindering peace. European leaders, including French President Macron and European Council President Costa, expressed concern that the easing of sanctions undermines European security. The US cited soaring global energy prices due to the US-Israeli war on Iran, which has disrupted Middle Eastern energy production and closed the Strait of Hormuz, as the reason for the rollback.

The US decision to ease some sanctions on Russian oil sales is drawing criticism from Ukraine and key European allies. These leaders, including the presidents of France and Ukraine, and the chancellor of Germany, fear the move will provide a significant economic boost to Russia, allowing it to further fund its war efforts in Ukraine. They argue that increased oil revenue will alleviate pressure on the Russian economy, enabling the Kremlin to purchase more weapons and soldiers. President Zelensky estimates this decision alone is worth $10 billion to Russia. The timing is particularly concerning as Ukraine seeks to regain territory and Russia faces economic and recruitment challenges. The EU is also struggling to provide promised funds to Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the U.S. 30-day waiver on Russian oil sanctions is "not the right decision" during a visit to Paris on Friday. He believes this easing of sanctions could provide Russia with approximately $10 billion to fund its ongoing war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy argued that lifting sanctions strengthens Russia's position, as it uses energy sales revenue to purchase weapons used against Ukraine. The U.S. Treasury Department announced the waiver to free up stranded Russian oil cargoes and alleviate supply shortages caused by the Iran war. Analysts suggest rising oil prices due to production blockages in the Persian Gulf are benefiting the Russian economy, which relies on oil revenue to finance its invasion.