Image: Washington Examiner

Europe Rebukes Trump Over Russian Oil Sanctions While Iran War Rages

13 March, 2026.Europe.13 sources

Key Takeaways

U.S. temporarily eases Russian oil sanctions to calm global energy markets.
European leaders criticized the move, saying it undermines pressure on Moscow.
Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz increased energy-market tensions amid the conflict.

Europe Rejects US Oil Moves

The United States' decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil triggered swift and unanimous rebuke from European allies.

“French President Emmanuel Macron stressed that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the war in the Middle East, and the disruption it causes to about 20% of global oil production, in no way justifies lifting the sanctions on Russia, stressing continued support for Ukraine and maintaining a unified Western stance toward Moscow”

Al-Jazeera Net

German Chancellor Merz said We think that's wrong.

Al-Jazeera Net

French President Macron stressed the Strait's closure in no way justifies lifting sanctions.

The UK's Yvette Cooper accused Russia and Iran of trying to hijack the global economy.

Trump Moves to Clear Strait, Ease Russian Oil

The US lifted sanctions on Russian oil already at sea.

Trump predicted the war would end very soon.

BBC

The move was described as a narrowly tailored, short-term measure.

Analysts warned the move would inevitably boost Moscow's revenues.

Europe Warns Syria Could Follow

European leaders warned shifting focus from Ukraine to Iran risked undermining support for Kyiv.

“AP Photo The US has relaxed its sanctions on Russia due to rising oil prices, permitting countries to purchase oil from Moscow to "promote stability in global energy markets”