In a stunning geopolitical reversal, the Trump administration has temporarily eased sanctions on Russian oil as the escalating war with Iran threatens to cripple global energy markets. The US Treasury Department issued a 30-day waiver on Thursday, allowing countries to purchase Russian crude and petroleum products currently stranded at sea, with the authorization valid until April 11, 2026.

The move comes as Brent crude prices surged past $100 per barrel following Tehran’s effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. With Iran warning that prices could hit $200, the domestic pressure in the US to stabilize fuel costs has forced President Donald Trump to soften his stance on Russian energy exports. This policy shift is being seen by experts as a pragmatic attempt to offset supply disruptions caused by the Iran-Israel conflict.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the decision as a “narrowly tailored, short-term measure” intended to keep global energy flowing. While the US maintains its broader sanctions against Moscow over the Ukraine war, this waiver specifically targets oil already in transit to prevent a global economic meltdown. Despite criticism from European allies who fear this will boost Vladimir Putin’s revenue, Trump remains focused on his “America First” energy agenda, prioritizing the cooling of domestic fuel prices amidst the Middle East chaos.