New US Oil Sanctions Counterproductive – Russia Warns!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

Russia has criticised the latest round of US sanctions targeting its oil industry, calling the move “counterproductive” and warning that it could undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

What We Know:

• The United States on Wednesday imposed new sanctions on companies and vessels allegedly helping Russia bypass oil price caps.
• Russia’s foreign ministry responded Thursday, saying the sanctions would not deter its oil exports and accusing Washington of “weaponising energy.”
• Officials claimed Russia had developed a “strong immunity” to sanctions and had diversified trade with non-Western allies.

Quote:

“Such measures only escalate tensions and diminish chances for diplomatic resolution. Russia’s economy and oil sector are resilient,”
— Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

Why It Matters:

• Oil revenue remains a critical source of funding for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine.
• The US-led price cap is part of a broader Western strategy to limit Russia’s war chest without destabilising global energy markets.
• Moscow’s defiance signals continued alignment with China, India, and other non-Western partners who have not endorsed the sanctions.

What to Watch:

• Reactions from global oil markets and OPEC+ in response to tightened sanctions.
• Whether key buyers like India or China alter their import behaviour.
• The impact on peace talks and whether economic pressure achieves the intended diplomatic results.

Sources:

1. Reuters – “Russia Slams US Oil Sanctions as Counterproductive”
2. Bloomberg – “New Round of Sanctions Targets Russian Tanker Network”
3. Al Jazeera – “Russia Claims Resilience Against US Sanctions”

About The Author