Kelly, Colleagues Call on Trump Administration to End Putin’s Oil Profit Windfall

U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) wrote Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent today calling on the Trump Administration to allow its waiver of certain .sanctions on Russian oil to expire tomorrow. Higher fuel prices-driven by President Trump's war in Iran-and the Administration's sanctions relief are reportedly contributing to Russia earning up to an additional $150 million per day in oil revenue.

"This policy, however temporary or limited in scope, risks providing the Russian Federation with a continued stream of revenue at a time when it is actively prosecuting its war against Ukraine and continues to target Americans. Every barrel sold under the cover of this license is a resource that can be directed toward sustaining Russia's military operations, replenishing its capabilities, and prolonging a conflict that has already imposed immense human and economic costs," the senators wrote.

"Continuing to ease sanctions on Russia as it provides Iran with valuable intelligence to target our troops and assets, putting them at lethal risk, is unacceptable," the senators continued.

At a moment when American leadership and credibility are paramount, we must ensure that our policies do not inadvertently finance or the very threats we seek to deter. We urge the Department to allow this license to expire and to reaffirm a clear, consistent commitment to holding Russia accountable," the senators concluded.

Click here to read the full letter.