UK loosens Russian oil sanctions as fuel prices rise

The UK government has loosened sanctions on Russian oil refined into diesel and jet fuel in third countries, effective Wednesday, citing rising fuel prices and supply concerns stemming from the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The waiver will allow imports of jet fuel from India and other refineries, reversing a ban imposed in October, while some sanctions on Russian liquefied natural gas transport were also lifted. The government stated the overall sanctions regime remains tough but requires additional flexibility, though the move mirrors a similar US decision that faced significant criticism.