Trump's camp called the criticism of easing sanctions against Russia ridiculous
President Donald Trump’s team reacted sharply to accusations of loyalty to the Kremlin over the decision to ease restrictions on Russian oil exports.
U.S. Permanent Representative to the UN Mike Waltz called such accusations “ridiculous” and explained the logic behind the White House’s actions.
According to Waltz, the revision of the sanctions regime is a technical step aimed at stabilizing the global energy market following sharp price fluctuations.
He emphasized that this decision in no way alters Washington’s strategic position regarding support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russian aggression.
“Secretary Bessent clearly stated that what is allowed to move is actually already in the water. What is not allowed to move is currently leaving Iranian refineries. The same applies to Russian oil,” Mike Waltz noted in an interview with NBC News.
WELKER: Why is the US rewarding Russia by extending these sanctions waivers? Russia is working with Iran
MIKE WALTZ: That’s oil that was going to market. Now, instead of just going to China, it can go to some of our other allies and partners.
WELKER: It’s a reversal of what the… pic.twitter.com/zBS0qsi9m7— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 19, 2026
The US Ambassador to the UN rejected the claim that such actions could be interpreted as support for the Russian economy.
He explained that the goal of the U.S. administration is to redirect energy supplies so that they benefit allies, not just China.
“This is oil that was supposed to go to the market. And now, instead of just going to China, it can go to some of our other allies and partners,” the diplomat emphasized.
Ukraine and a number of countries supported the EU’s new sanctions against Russia
Merz announced new sanctions against Russia’s shadow fleet
