Six of seven G7 nations disagree with the US decision to grant Russia a reprieve from oil sanctions, German Chancellor Frederich Merz announced Friday. The move by US President Donald Trump, aimed at boosting global oil supply amidst soaring prices exacerbated by the US-Israeli war against Iran, has drawn sharp criticism from allies.
Leaders from Germany, Canada, and Norway, all NATO members, stated they would engage the White House to reverse the decision. They emphasized the alliance's commitment to maintaining maximum pressure on the Kremlin over its war in Ukraine and broader security threats. Merz expressed surprise at the US administration's unilateral action, stating, "We were a little bit surprised when we heard this morning that the American government decided differently."
These leaders agreed that continued pressure is crucial, arguing Russia should not benefit from rejoining global oil markets. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius voiced concerns that renewed oil revenue could significantly bolster Russia's capacity to sustain its costly invasion. He stated, "The only thing at the end to really force Putin at the negotiation table is to make clear that his revenues out of export of oil and gas will find an end."
Conversely, the Kremlin welcomed the US decision, with presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noting aligned interests in stabilizing energy markets and acknowledging the exception for oil loaded before March 12th. The allied leaders made their remarks during a visit to witness NATO’s Arctic Sentry military exercise, an initiative agreed upon following Trump's prior claims regarding Greenland.