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Senate Democrats Slam Treasury's Controversial Russian Oil License

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senate Democrats criticized the U.S. Treasury Department's temporary license permitting purchases of Russian oil stranded at sea.
They called the move "shameful" and argued it contradicts commitments by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
The license, effective from April 15 to May 16, could yield Russia over $4 billion during the Iran war.
Critics argued the extension undermines sanctions and benefits Russia and Iran, despite the Treasury spokesperson's claim of energy needs.

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Story summary

Senate Democrats criticized the U.S. Treasury Department's temporary license permitting purchases of Russian oil stranded at sea.
They called the move "shameful" and argued it contradicts commitments by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
The license, effective from April 15 to May 16, could yield Russia over $4 billion during the Iran war.
Critics argued the extension undermines sanctions and benefits Russia and Iran, despite the Treasury spokesperson's claim of energy needs.