The UK government has relaxed parts of its sanctions on Russian crude oil by allowing imports of jet fuel and diesel refined in third countries as fuel costs continue rising.
The decision comes through a trade licence that took effect Wednesday. The licence permits certain imports indefinitely, though officials said it will be reviewed periodically.
The move comes at a sensitive moment for energy markets as concerns grow over fuel supplies because of the de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz during the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran.
Britain has spent years presenting itself as one of the strongest supporters of Ukraine and one of the leading countries applying economic pressure on Russia over its invasion.
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Just this week, the UK signed a G7 statement reaffirming its commitment to imposing severe costs on Moscow. The government had also previously promised to block Russian oil refined in third countries in order to restrict money flowing to the Kremlin.
The policy change has sparked criticism from opposition figures who argue that easing restrictions now sends the wrong message to Russia and Ukraine.
Emily Thornberry, chair of the foreign affairs committee, said Ukrainian officials were disappointed by the decision and questioned why Britain would relax pressure when stronger sanctions are still needed.
She argued that Ukraine has looked to the UK as one of its most important allies and that the decision could leave people feeling let down.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch also criticized the move, calling it insane and accusing the Labour government of allowing Russian-linked oil imports while opposing more domestic oil and gas production.
Government officials defended the decision by saying ministers must protect the UK national interest and shield families from the impact of international conflicts on fuel prices.
Treasury minister Dan Tomlinson said the temporary rule change was connected to extreme pressure caused by the Iran conflict and its effect on energy markets reaching British households.
The decision could allow more imports of jet fuel from India, which has previously supplied the UK and Europe. India refines large amounts of Russian crude, while Turkey also processes significant volumes.
The issue has become more urgent as UK fuel prices climb. The RAC said the average price of petrol at UK forecourts reached 158.5p per litre, the highest level since December 2022.
Reports also suggest Chancellor Rachel Reeves may abandon a planned fuel duty increase from September as pressure grows over household costs.
The decision highlights the difficult balance facing Western governments: maintaining pressure on Russia while also managing rising energy prices and public frustration at home.
UK loosens Russian oil sanctions as fuel prices rise https://t.co/9lhDZCYbSP
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) May 20, 2026
