Three prominent world leaders, including two from the G7, expressed their collective opposition on Friday to the Trump administration’s decision to relax sanctions on Russia’s covert fleet of oil tankers. Mark Carney from Canada, Friedrich Merz from Germany, and Jonas Støre from Norway were transported in an armored personnel carrier to a snowy simulated battlefield in northern Norway to observe NATO’s extensive Cold Response exercise involving more than 30,000 military personnel. The leaders criticized the U.S. administration’s unexpected move to ease sanctions on Russia’s operating oil vessels, which were already at sea.
In defense of the decision, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claimed that the temporary waiver aimed to stabilize global energy markets, which have been disrupted by the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Bessent clarified that the waiver would not significantly benefit the Russian government financially. The topic of the waiver was deliberated among G7 leaders during a virtual meeting, with six out of seven leaders opposing the release of sanctions against Russia. Merz expressed surprise and disappointment at the American government’s differing decision.
Carney emphasized that Canada’s stance on maintaining sanctions against Russia, including the shadow fleet facilitating oil movements, remains unchanged. He highlighted the close collaboration between Russia and Iran, which poses a considerable threat to peace and security in Europe. Støre echoed the sentiment, calling for increased pressure on Russia rather than a reduction.
The military exercise the leaders observed was notably influenced by the conflict in Ukraine. Norwegian defense officials emphasized the incorporation of hundreds of civilians in the war game, reflecting a realistic approach to crisis management and civil involvement in conflict situations. The NATO exercise is scheduled to continue until March 19.
