The United Kingdom will not immediately ban diesel and jet fuel made from Russian oil. The government announced a plan to introduce new sanctions gradually over the coming months. This decision follows fears of fuel supply problems and higher prices. A key shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz, has been effectively blocked since the start of the conflict in the Middle East. The Foreign Office stated that extra flexibility is needed for UK supply chains. This adjustment comes after initial plans were set in October last year to ban oil products from Russia. Millions of barrels of fuel made from Russian oil had still been reaching the UK through India and Turkey. These imports were estimated to be worth GHS 1.8 billion.
The new phased approach means jet fuel from India can still be imported into the UK. Turkey is another country where Russian crude oil is refined. The government indicated that the ban will be introduced slowly to avoid causing instability in fuel markets. The disruption in the Middle East has significantly impacted the transport of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). More than half of Europe's jet fuel travels through the Strait of Hormuz. This disruption has caused European jet fuel prices to almost double. In late February, before recent airstrikes, jet fuel cost $831 per tonne. By early April, it reached $1,838 per tonne.
The UK is also banning maritime transport of Russian LNG. However, a temporary licence will allow this to continue until January 1. The United Kingdom has been a leader in international efforts to pressure Russia economically. This action follows a G7 statement reaffirming commitment to impose severe costs on Russia. However, the changes have drawn criticism. Robin Mills, chief executive of Qamar Energy, called the decision a "negative signal" about the strength of sanctions. He believes it will not lower prices or address shortages. Ryanair’s CEO Michael O'Leary stated fuel shortage risks were very low. Other airlines have cancelled flights due to rising fuel costs. Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative Party leader, accused the government of "choosing to buy dirty Russian oil." She criticized Sir Keir Starmer for weakening its stance on supporting Ukraine.
Sir Keir Starmer defended the government's policy, calling it a "phasing in" of new sanctions. He insisted no existing sanctions were being lifted. Dame Emily Thornberry, a Labour MP, disagreed. She expressed concern for allies in Ukraine who rely on British support. The United States also extended a similar waiver last month. This loosened sanctions on Russian oil already loaded on vessels. Many US and UK allies criticize these waivers. They argue these actions benefit Russia's government and its invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that every dollar paid for Russian oil fuels the war.