On March 13, 2026, the U.S. Treasury announced a temporary authorization allowing the purchase of Russian oil that is currently stranded at sea, in an effort to stabilize energy markets following recent volatility and price increases caused by disruptions in Russian oil supplies [1]. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the move as a 'narrowly tailored, short-term measure' that applies exclusively to oil already in transit, emphasizing that it is intended to address a 'temporary disruption' in the market [1].
According to a notice on the Treasury's website, the exemption applies to Russian crude products loaded on ships on or before 12:01 a.m. Eastern time, and purchases of this stranded oil are permitted until April 11, 12:01 a.m. [1]. Bessent also stated that the measure will not provide 'significant financial benefit to the Russian government,' highlighting that most of Russia's energy revenue comes from taxes assessed at the point of extraction rather than at the point of sale [1].
The U.S. government's intervention is aimed at mitigating the impact of recent price spikes and ensuring stability in global energy markets, though no specific market reactions or analyst opinions were provided in the article [1].
CONCLUSION
The U.S. Treasury's temporary authorization to purchase stranded Russian oil is intended to stabilize energy markets amid recent disruptions and price increases. The measure is limited in scope and duration, with officials emphasizing minimal financial benefit to Russia. Market participants may view this as a supportive step for short-term energy price stability.