BRUSSELS, March 13 : European Council President Ant nio Costa on Friday criticised US President Donald Trump’s unilateral decision to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian oil exports, calling the move “very concerning” and warning that it could undermine European security.
Costa said weakening sanctions on Russia would strengthen Moscow’s financial capacity and could prolong its war against Ukraine.
“The unilateral decision by the US to lift sanctions on Russian oil exports is very concerning, as it impacts European security. Increasing economic pressure on Russia is decisive for it to accept a serious negotiation for a just and lasting peace,” Costa said.
He also stressed that easing sanctions would increase Russia’s resources to continue its war of aggression against Ukraine.
The criticism comes after the United States announced it would temporarily remove sanctions on Russian oil currently stranded at sea.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said late Thursday that the “narrowly tailored” measure is aimed at stabilising global energy markets and will remain in place until April 11.
In a post on social media platform X, Bessent said the exemption “will not provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government.”
He added that President Trump is taking steps to stabilise global energy markets while addressing geopolitical tensions. “President Trump is taking decisive steps to promote stability in global energy markets and working to keep prices low as we address the threat and instability posed by the Iranian regime,” Bessent said.
He also noted that the administration’s pro-energy policies have boosted US oil and gas production to record levels, helping lower fuel prices domestically. According to Bessent, the recent rise in oil prices is a short-term disruption that will ultimately benefit the U.S. economy in the long run.
The move follows another recent decision by the Trump administration to temporarily lift restrictions allowing India to purchase Russian oil for 30 days.
Earlier this week, President Trump also authorised the release of 172 million barrels of oil from the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve to help ease supply concerns.
Meanwhile, a group of Democratic senators on the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs has raised concerns over the administration’s decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil.
In a letter sent earlier this week to committee chair Senator Tim Scott, the lawmakers requested a congressional hearing with Treasury Secretary Bessent by the end of March.
(UNI)
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