The UK government is working to reassure Ukraine after a decision to allow temporary imports of Russian oil and jet fuel sparked criticism from Kyiv. Ukrainian officials warned the move could help fund Moscow's war effort, despite Downing Street insisting it was part of a tougher overall sanctions package.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer denied weakening sanctions, stating that the new package included bans on maritime services for LNG and refined oil products from Russia. He said two short-term licences were issued to phase in the changes and protect UK consumers, calling it 'standard practice'.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed discussions with the UK, saying his team had 'conveyed our views' on the sensitive issue of sanctions. He stressed that long-term sanctions were most effective against Russia and expected further talks this week.
The row began after expanded UK sanctions, announced in October, came into force on Tuesday. Short-term exceptions were added due to rising fuel costs from the Iran war, allowing imports of jet fuel, diesel from Russian crude, and fossil gas from two Russian terminals for three months before review.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused Starmer of 'choosing to buy dirty Russian oil' that would fund the killing of Ukrainian soldiers. Trade minister Chris Bryant admitted the matter had been handled 'clumsily' and apologised.
Ukraine has intensified strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, with Zelenskyy calling them 'effective' in compelling Russia to reduce aggression. A former Ukrainian official described western sanctions as 'too little too late', questioning the logic of the British decision.
