EU Commissioner Says G7 Divided on Russia Sanctions

European Economic Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis said the G7 countries are divided over sanctions policy toward Russia, criticizing the US decision to extend an exemption allowing purchases of Russian oil transported by tankers.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent extended the waiver for another 30 days amid concerns over possible oil shortages and rising prices after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz. Reuters reported that several countries urged Washington to maintain the measure to ease pressure on global energy markets.

Dombrovskis acknowledged that although the G7 remains a forum of close allies, disagreements persist on certain issues. He identified the extension of the oil waiver as one such point of division.

Finance ministers from the G7 and partner countries also discussed global economic imbalances and the need for closer international cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions.

(reuters, mja)