US Extends 30-Day Waiver for Russian Oil at Sea
PUBLISHED May 18, 2026, 3:19 PM ET
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Washington — On Monday, the U.S. Treasury Department issued a temporary 30-day general license allowing energy-vulnerable nations to access Russian crude oil already loaded on tankers and stranded at sea. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the extension, announced this week, intends to stabilize physical crude markets and reroute supply to countries in need while addressing a waiver that expired on May 16. Washington and other governments said the waiver aims to ensure oil reaches importers as Persian Gulf disruptions have tightened supplies; India stated it continued commercial imports regardless. Officials noted the license may reduce China's ability to stockpile discounted Russian oil and could be renewed again; OFAC and partner nations will process specific licenses as requested this month.
By Mahnoor A. | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- March: U.S. issues initial temporary waiver permitting at-sea Russian crude sales.
- 28 February: West Asia conflict begins, contributing to supply disruptions.
- 16 May: Previous 30-day waiver expires without immediate replacement.
- Mid-May: Poorer countries request more time to secure disrupted supplies.
- 18 May: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announces a new 30-day general license extension.
News Intelligence
- This extension could stabilize oil prices, affecting your gas and heating costs. It also aims to prevent China from hoarding cheap Russian oil. Keep an eye on your energy bills and the news for any changes.
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Russian oil exporters and refiners purchasing discounted crude benefited from continued market access under the temporary waiver.
Countries dependent on stable sea-borne Gulf routes and policymakers seeking to maximize sanctions pressure on Russia faced constrained policy options.
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From Center
US Extends 30-Day Waiver for Russian Oil at Sea
Asian News International (ANI) GlobalSecurity.org The Hans IndiaFrom Right
U.S. Extends Russian Oil Sanctions Waiver Again as Persian Gulf Tensions Drive Prices Up
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