Merz Calls U.S. Decision To Ease Sanctions Against Russia Mistake

RunWithRugs · 2026-03-17T17:48:03+00:00

The interconnectedness of the wars in Iran and Ukraine was emphasized during a press conference in Berlin. The EU criticized the US for easing sanctions on Russian oil, arguing it undermines Ukraine and European security, and calls for strengthened sanctions on Russia were reiterated.

RunWithRugs

2026-03-17 17:48:03

Abstract generation in progress

(MENAFN- UkrinForm) He made these remarks at a joint press conference with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten in Berlin, according to a Ukrinform correspondent.

The wars in Iran and Ukraine are interconnected. Russia, of course, is closely monitoring developments surrounding Iran. Russia will seize any opportunity to test NATO and weaken Ukraine. That is why the EU believes it is wrong for Washington to have eased restrictive measures on the sale of Russian oil, the chancellor said.

He emphasized the need to intensify sanctions pressure on Russia, stating that the EU would not choose that path and would continue to strengthen its sanctions pressure on Russia.

** Read also:** Council of European Union imposes sanctions on nine individuals responsible for Bucha crimes

According to Merz, Washington’s current concessions to Russia will not lead to a sustained drop in energy prices, but for Ukraine, this is a harmful and wrong signal. This is also detrimental to our European security, he added.

As reported by Ukrinform, the United States has decided to suspend sanctions on the sale of Russian oil and petroleum products loaded onto ship before March 12 for one month.

Photo: European Union

MENAFN16032026000193011044ID1110869363

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.