Germany’s Merz says easing of Russia sanctions is ‘wrong’
Germany’s Merz Says Easing Russia Sanctions Is ‘Wrong’
Chancellor Criticizes U.S. Move to Temporarily Permit Russian Oil Sales
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has commented on the U.S. decision to temporarily permit the sale of sanctioned Russian oil, calling it a flawed approach. He argued that the timing of the measure was misaligned and raised questions about Washington’s underlying intentions. During his visit to the Andoya spaceport in Norway, Merz emphasized that lifting sanctions now would mislead global efforts against Moscow, despite the ongoing Iran conflict driving up energy prices.
G7 Consensus Challenged by U.S. Policy Shift
Mery noted that the issue had been thoroughly examined during this week’s G7 summit, where discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump highlighted a divergence in views. “Six G7 nations clearly stated their position that this signal is not appropriate,” he stated. “However, we were informed this morning that the U.S. government has decided to proceed differently.” Merz reiterated his belief that the U.S. move is misguided, asserting that the current challenge lies in oil prices, not supply shortages, and expressing uncertainty about the additional rationale behind the decision.
Support for Ukraine Remains Unshaken
Merz, who engaged with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store on backing Ukraine in its fight against Russia, stressed that pressure on Moscow must intensify. “The Kremlin continues to show no desire for dialogue,” he said. “Therefore, we cannot afford to reduce sanctions at this critical juncture.” The chancellor also clarified that the Iran conflict would not divert Germany and its allies from their commitment to Ukraine, reaffirming that their support remains steadfast.
U.S. Treasury Justifies Policy with Energy Market Concerns
The U.S. Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, defended the temporary license for Russian crude oil and petroleum products, stating it aims to bolster global supply amid surging energy costs. Merz, however, dismissed this as insufficient, arguing that the decision fails to address the core issues of the crisis. He further ruled out Germany’s participation in any international military operation targeting maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that the nation remains focused on its own strategic objectives.
“Let me make this very clear once again: Germany is not part of this war, and we do not want to become part of it,” Merz concluded.
