With the Iran-US-Israel war sending shockwaves through global energy markets, Washington has taken a dramatic and highly strategic step: the US Treasury has announced a special 30‑day “window” allowing countries to purchase Russian oil stranded at sea despite ongoing sanctions.
The move comes as crude prices surged past $100 per barrel, the highest in four years, and fears of supply shortages rattled markets worldwide.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Thursday that countries will be granted 30‑day special licences to buy Russian crude and petroleum products currently stuck in maritime transit. He stressed that the aim is to stabilise global energy markets shaken by the escalating conflict.
However, the flexibility comes with strict conditions:
Shipments must occur within the designated time frame
Transactions must be completed within the approved period
No sanctions violations will be tolerated
The US insists the measure will not provide Moscow with any significant financial benefit.
“This decision will not result in major gains for the Russian government,” Bessent wrote on X, just hours after oil prices spiked.
A Tactical Move to Cool an Overheated Market
The war has pushed the global oil market to the brink, with supply routes disrupted and traders scrambling for alternatives. Washington’s temporary relaxation is designed to ease the pressure and prevent further price escalation.
Energy analysts say the world will now be watching closely to see whether this strategic opening can meaningfully reduce volatility and restore some balance to the market.
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