US extends sanctions on Russian oil until May

The United States has extended a special permit to purchase Russian oil that is already on tankers at sea. The new permit expires on 16 May 2026.

The US continues sanctions pressure

The US authorities have announced the extension of sanctions on Russian oil for another month. This includes allowing foreign countries to buy oil that has already been loaded onto tankers and is at sea.

The previous permission for such transactions was valid until 11 April 2026. The new extension sets a deadline of 16 May. This decision affects logistics and markets that depend on Russian oil.

Conditions for international buyers

Under the new rules, foreign countries can only buy Russian oil, The new cargoes are not eligible for the previous permit. New cargoes are not subject to these conditions.

This permit avoids supply disruptions for countries that already have oil on the way. An extension of the deadline could affect prices and supply stability.

The context of US decisions

Sanctions against Russian oil remain a key element of international pressure on Russia. The extension of the permit demonstrates the flexibility of Washington's approach to partners that depend on energy resources.

In the past, the US has repeatedly adjusted the terms of sanctions to avoid putting excessive pressure on global markets.