UK commits to ban Russian diesel and jet fuel imports by January 2027
The UK government has committed to banning imports of diesel and jet fuel refined from Russian crude oil by 1 January 2027, with a temporary licence subject to fortnightly review that could be revoked earlier. The announcement follows criticism in May when the UK introduced flexibility into its sanctions regime, citing global oil supply concerns, prompting a rebuke from the EU. The move is significant as it sets a firm end date for a sanctions loophole that critics argue has continued to funnel billions of pounds to Russia's war effort.
The UK government has announced it will ban imports of diesel and jet fuel made from Russian crude oil — including products refined in third countries — by 1 January 2027 at the latest. Trade Minister Chris Bryant framed the deadline as a signal of continued pressure on Moscow, while Foreign Office Minister Stephen Doughty said the measures would prevent Russian-origin refined oil from entering the UK via indirect routes. The temporary import licence will be reviewed every two weeks, meaning it could be lifted sooner if conditions allow. The announcement comes after the UK faced criticism in May for introducing flexibility into its sanctions package, with the EU warning it was 'not the time to roll back sanctions.' Global oil markets have been under pressure following disruptions linked to US-Israel tensions with Iran and reduced flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Critics, including prominent Putin critic Sir Bill Browder, condemned the continued allowance as 'absurd,' arguing it simultaneously funds Russia's military while the UK provides financial support to Ukraine. The government maintains it is balancing maximum pressure on Russia with domestic energy stability.
What's missing
The article does not specify the volume or monetary value of UK imports of Russian-origin diesel and jet fuel currently covered by the temporary licence, which would help quantify the financial impact on Russia. It also does not detail what alternative supply sources the UK plans to use to replace these imports before the deadline.
What different sources said
- BBC Top StoriesCenter
UK vows to phase out Russian diesel and jet fuel imports by new year
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