Mar 10, 2026, 5:38 p.mMar 10, 2026, 5:38 p.m
The EU warns US President Donald Trump against easing sanctions against Russia’s oil exports. «From the perspective of the European Union, the situation is very clear. We must continue to exert maximum pressure on Russia,” said EU Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis after a meeting of EU finance ministers in Brussels.
EU Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis.Image: keystone
Since the current rise in oil and gas prices as a result of the Iran war could provide Russia with unexpected additional income, it is important to strictly enforce the existing Western price cap for Russian oil. It’s about limiting Russia’s revenue, he emphasized.
According to Dombrovskis, easing sanctions would be “self-damaging”. It would strengthen Russia’s ability to wage war, weaken Ukraine and also harm the goals the United States and Israel were trying to achieve against Iran, he said. Ultimately, Russia supported Iran in the war.
Announcement after phone call between Trump and Putin
Trump had previously said on Monday, shortly after a phone call with Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin, that the US was suspending “certain oil-related sanctions in order to reduce prices.” He will do this until the situation calms down. It may then no longer be necessary to reinstate the restrictions, he added. Trump did not say which countries specifically he wanted to exempt from sanctions.
In order to enforce the existing price cap for Russian oil, sanctions are currently being threatened against companies involved in the transport of Russian oil at a price above the price cap. This regulation is aimed at shipping companies, but also at companies that offer insurance, technical assistance and financing and brokerage services. A general ban on maritime services for Russian oil exports is currently being discussed. (hkl/sda/dpa)