Story perspectives

Trump Ends Russian Crude Waiver, Senators Decry Renewal

5/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Trump administration let the Russian sanctions waiver expire on May 16, 2026, ending sales of Russian crude on tankers.
India, Indonesia and importers lobbied for an extension; Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Elizabeth Warren urged the U.S. not to renew, saying it lets Russia earn billions.
Republican Brian Mast backed sanctions but warned they must not harm allies more than Russia while the administration allowed vessels to move crude between U.S. ports.

History

Historical Context

After Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, the United States and the European Union imposed their first wide-range sanctions, triggering $154 billion of capital outflows and soaring Russian interest rates. Those measures have been renewed periodically; the latest waiver allowing U.S. tanker sales expires on 16 May 2026, prompting India, Indonesia and Senators Shaheen and Warren to challenge Russia’s continued oil earnings.

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Story summary

The Trump administration let the Russian sanctions waiver expire on May 16, 2026, ending sales of Russian crude on tankers.
India, Indonesia and importers lobbied for an extension; Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Elizabeth Warren urged the U.S. not to renew, saying it lets Russia earn billions.
Republican Brian Mast backed sanctions but warned they must not harm allies more than Russia while the administration allowed vessels to move crude between U.S. ports.

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