The US Treasury Secretary said that the easing of sanctions against Russian oil would bring Moscow about $2 billion in profit. According to him, this is equal to just one day of the Russian budget. Washington argues that the move is necessary to stabilise global oil prices.
Bessent: Russia's additional profits are «insignificant»
US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent said that the easing of US sanctions against Russian oil would bring Russia a maximum of $2 billion in additional revenue. He noted that this amount is equal to one day of the Russian budget and called it insignificant.
Bessent explained that if oil price rises to $150 per barrel, Russia will receive more funds. However, maintaining the price below $100 limits Moscow's revenues, even if sanctions are eased.
Reasons for easing sanctions and reaction
According to Bessent, the US decision is aimed at stabilising global oil prices. This should reduce Russia's potential profits from energy exports.
China remains the main buyer of Russian oil, purchasing more than 90% of exports. The easing of sanctions has drawn criticism from Ukraine and European countries.
The head of the European Council, Antonio Costa, said that this decision increases Russia's resources to wage war against Ukraine. US President Donald Trump has promised to reimpose sanctions after the crisis in the Middle East is over.
Context.
On 13 March, the United States lifted sanctions on Russian oil that was already on tankers at sea. The reason was the crisis in the Middle East due to the US and Israeli war against Iran and strikes on the Gulf states.
On 21 March, the US Treasury also eased sanctions on Iranian oil. The US government claims that these steps are temporary and aimed at stabilising the energy market.
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