UK relaxes strict sanctions on Russian crude as oil costs soar

Decision to allow import of jet fuel and diesel refined in third countries is criticised by Tories as ‘insane’

The UK government has relaxed strict sanctions on Russian crude oil, allowing for the import of jet fuel and diesel refined in third countries amid surging costs.

A trade licence that came into effect on Wednesday permits the imports indefinitely and will be reviewed periodically. It comes at a time of growing concerns over the supply of certain fuels owing to the de facto blockade of the strait of Hormuz since the start of the US-Israeli war with Iran.