UK grants Russian fuel licenses, starmer defends
SkimNews Take
The coordinated easing of sanctions by the UK and US suggests a strategic pivot towards managing global energy supply rather than solely punishing Russia, prioritizing market stability over complete isolation.
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- British government issued a general trade licence permitting imports of diesel and jet fuel derived from Russian oil processed in third‑country refineries such as India and Turkey.
- British government also authorised imports of Russian liquefied natural gas from the Sakhalin 2 and Yamal terminals.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the sanctions relief is a short‑term response to rising energy prices, but the diesel and jet fuel licence is indefinite and will be reviewed periodically.
- Bessent extended a 30‑day U.S. Treasury licence on the same day the UK measure took effect, lifting restrictions on Russian oil exports.
- Daily Telegraph and opposition parties condemned the move, dubbing Starmer “comrade Keir” for conceding to “dirty Russian oil”.
Why it matters: UK airlines and transport firms secure cheaper fuel amid tight supplies, while Russia's oil earnings surge and sanctions critics warn of weakened pressure on Moscow.
