INTERNATIONAL — April 18, 2026
US Extends Exemption for Countries to Purchase Russian Oil Until May 16
The US Treasury Department has extended an exemption for countries to purchase sanctioned Russian oil until May 16 to increase global oil supply amid disruptions from the war against Iran.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with RTA — 2 min read

The US Treasury Department has extended an exemption permitting countries to purchase sanctioned Russian oil shipped by sea until May 16 of the current year. The goal is to increase oil supply amid global disruptions from the war against Iran.
This extension allows for the continued buying of Russian oil that is transported via maritime routes. The measure is expected to help in addressing the shortages and instabilities in the global energy market caused by the conflict.
According to the details provided, the exemption has been prolonged for roughly one month. This provides purchasing countries with the necessary time to secure oil supplies without immediate interruption from the sanctions.
The war against Iran has led to various disruptions in the worldwide oil trade and distribution networks. In response, the United States has taken this step to facilitate greater availability of alternative sources of oil including from Russia.
The specific focus on oil loaded on ships highlights the type of transactions covered under this exemption. It is a targeted policy to maintain the flow of energy resources during a period of heightened international challenges.
By extending the exemption, the US Treasury Department is aiming to prevent further negative impacts on oil prices and supply chains that many nations depend upon. The current year has seen significant volatility in the energy sector due to the mentioned war.
This decision illustrates the complex considerations involved in enforcing sanctions while simultaneously managing the broader implications for global economic stability and energy security. The deadline of May 16 serves as the new cutoff point for the applied exemption.
Read the original reporting at RTA →
Reliability assessment
Single source (RTA) provides direct attribution to an on-record US Treasury Department announcement with concrete, checkable details including the specific extension deadline of May 16.
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International — US Treasury Department, Russian Oil, Sanctions Exemption, Iran War, Global Oil Supply
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