Germany said it would maintain sanctions on Russia despite reports of a deal between the US and Russia involving Russian diesel supply. Berlin affirmed its commitment to existing sanctions and efforts to develop new packages with European partners.
Germany confirms sanctions stance
Stefan Kornelius, a German government spokesperson, noted Washington’s decision regarding shipments of Russian diesel fuel but said Germany remains committed to sanctions against Russia. He added that support for Ukraine by Germany is unwavering.
A spokesperson for the Germany Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy reaffirmed full backing for EU sanctions. They pointed out Russian oil has been on the sanctions list since 2023 and Germany has not imported Russian oil since then. The spokesperson said Germany’s supply is diversified and its supply security is guaranteed, independent of Russian oil.
Fuel union sees limited market impact
The Fuel and Energy Union said it does not expect the reported US-Russia deal to have a major effect on prices at German fuel stations. The union highlighted that the EU import ban on Russian diesel fuel has been in place since 5 February 2023 and will remain effective. It also said the deal is unlikely to significantly impact the global market.
US President Trump announced an agreement with Russia to supply tens of thousands of tons of diesel aimed at lowering global fuel prices, temporarily suspending sanctions in return.
Support for Ukraine remains firm
Germany’s Prime Minister Friedrich Merz confirmed during a visit to Kiev in early October that aid to Ukraine would not be reduced.
Germany and its European partners continue to work on new sanctions packages in response to developments in fuel trade with Russia, signalling a coordinated approach to sanctions policy.
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Source: Germany
