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Germany and Norway Criticize US Decision to Ease Russian Oil Sanctions

Published March 13, 2026, 12:09
Germany and Norway Criticize US Decision to Ease Russian Oil Sanctions

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre have voiced their opposition to the US decision to temporarily ease sanctions on Russian oil, describing it as a 'mistake'. Scholz stated that Germany was only informed about the decision today and wishes to understand Washington's motives. He also noted that the use of oil reserves could help control prices. He dismissed the possibility of military protection in the Strait of Hormuz, stating that Germany does not want to be involved in the war in Iran. German Economy Minister Katrin Röhre expressed fears that easing sanctions would strengthen Russia's war chest. In contrast, the Kremlin welcomed the decision, seeing it as an attempt to stabilize global energy markets. Russia argued that stabilization is impossible without significant quantities of Russian oil on the market.