US eases Russian oil sanctions for a month, stirring debate over Putin's windfall

Washington’s one‑month waiver lets buyers purchase Russian oil that had been stranded by sanctions, a move welcomed by Moscow but criticized as a potential Putin windfall that could prolong the war in Ukraine. Officials say the policy is narrow and aimed at stabilizing energy markets amid tensions with Iran, but analysts differ on impact: some estimate Russian oil exports could rise by about $7–10 billion a month, with some tax revenue flowing to Moscow, while CREA argues the figure is lower and the overall effect on oil prices would be modest and contingent on supply routes like the Strait of Hormuz. Western leaders remain divided, with several voicing opposition.