The United States has temporarily lifted sanction restrictions on the purchase of Russian crude oil and petroleum products transported by sea tankers.

According to a license issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the authorization applies to oil loaded onto vessels before March 12, 2026. The waiver will remain in effect for a 30-day period, expiring on April 11.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent explained that the measure is intended to increase the global supply of raw materials currently stranded at sea due to logistical disruptions in the Middle East. He emphasized that the move would not provide the Kremlin with significant financial benefits, noting that Russia derives the majority of its energy revenue from taxes assessed at the point of extraction rather than the sale of transit cargoes.

The decision by the Donald Trump administration has sparked sharp domestic criticism.

California Governor Gavin Newsom reacted harshly to the easing of restrictions, labeling the American president as Vladimir Putin's "puppy." In addition to political statements, the governor's press office circulated an AI-generated image mocking Trump’s perceived dependence on the Russian leader.

The U.S. Treasury continues to maintain that the measure is purely pragmatic and short-term, necessitated by the total paralysis of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz following recent escalations involving Iran. Officials stated the goal is to tame energy prices, which recently spiked above $100 per barrel.