U.S. pause on Russian oil sanctions sparks criticism from Canada, Germany, and Norway, who warn it undermines efforts to pressure Russia over Ukraine.

Canada, Germany, and Norway strongly criticized the U.S. decision to pause sanctions on Russian oil for 30 days, calling it counterproductive amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and rising regional tensions. Prime Minister Mark Carney, joined by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, reaffirmed their nations’ commitment to maintaining sanctions, including on Russia’s shadow fleet, to limit funding for Moscow’s war effort. The U.S. cited global energy market stability and disruptions from the Iran conflict as justification, but allies expressed concern that easing pressure could undermine international unity and prolong the war.