The UK government on Friday stated that it will prohibit the import of diesel and jet fuel derived from Russian crude oil by 1 January 2027. The measure forms part of a broader package of sanctions imposed on Moscow in response to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
“Today we’re confirming that the government will include an end date of 1st January 2027 in the license at the latest and that we will continue to keep the license under continuous review,” UK Trade Minister Chris Bryant said.
In May, the government announced that it would gradually phase out the use of diesel and jet fuel refined in third countries from Russian crude oil, as part of the introduction of new sanctions. The government explained that this phased approach was necessary to provide additional flexibility in light of global oil supply challenges.
The decision drew criticism, with the European Union cautioning that it was ‘not the time to roll back sanctions’ against Moscow.
The government said the temporary license for importing these products will be reviewed every two weeks, adding that the process could lead to its withdrawal before 1 January, earlier than the schedule.
“The end date is a clear signal that we continue to ratchet up maximum pressure on Russia,” the Minister added.
Global oil prices have risen sharply due to the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, as disruptions to trade through the Strait of Hormuz have constrained global oil supplies. Brent crude, which was trading at around $70 per barrel before the conflict, has climbed to approximately $87, although prices have eased slightly.
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