Overview
- The government published two licences late on May 19 that took effect on May 20 allowing imports of diesel and jet fuel refined from Russian‑origin crude if processed in a third country and a separate temporary maritime licence for LNG.
- The trade licence is described as of indefinite duration with periodic reviews and the LNG maritime licence permits shipments from Sakhalin‑2 and Yamal until Jan. 1, 2027.
- Ministers said the measures are a targeted, time‑limited step to protect UK fuel availability and keep jet fuel flowing after shipping disruptions linked to the Iran conflict and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
- Ukrainian officials, opposition politicians and sanctions campaigners criticised the carve‑outs for weakening pressure on Moscow and warned the move mirrors a recent US waiver that eases enforcement of energy restrictions.
- Analysts note the licences reopen supply routes from hubs such as India and Turkey where Russian crude is refined, which may ease short‑term prices for drivers and airlines while creating a precedent that could let Russia monetise more oil during supply shocks.