The UK has eased oil sanctions on Russia following the US. This decision was made in response to the global fuel crisis triggered by the US and Israel's war on Iran. The UK allows the import of diesel fuel and aviation kerosene produced in third countries from Russia, while also lifting service restrictions on two Russian gas projects. Thus, British companies can insure, finance, and transport liquefied gas shipments from Russia to third countries by sea. Although this easing aims to temporarily soften the global energy crisis, the main beneficiaries will be Russia, China, and India. The UK had imposed an embargo on oil and oil products following Russia's intervention in Ukraine in 2022 but continued to import products made from Russian oil until last autumn. The country became dependent on energy imports as it reduced oil production in the North Sea and did not build new refineries. This situation may lead to cost increases in transportation, agriculture, and aviation sectors and slow economic growth. The decision drew strong opposition from the UK opposition. Meanwhile, it prevents Russia from fully increasing exports of oil and gas infrastructure damaged due to the Ukraine war. The European Union continues its plan to completely abandon Russian energy sources and does not ease sanctions.
