How Western countries finance Russia's war against Ukraine? Details from Politico.

Russian fuel purchased by Western countries finances Russia's war against Ukraine - Politico

Western countries that support Ukraine in its war with Russia are sponsoring the Russian army by purchasing Russian oil and fuel made from it. This is reported by Politico.

In the first half of 2024, Western countries bought $2 billion worth of fuel made from Russian oil. This became possible due to a sanctions loophole that allows selling fuel to Russians and refining oil in other countries.

It is noted that the sales volumes of diesel and gasoline made from Russian oil have increased in European countries. This became possible thanks to three Turkish refineries.

«This import is technically legal because, despite the sanctions, countries can buy fuel of Russian origin if it is first refined in another country, such as Turkey», the article says.

Ukraine demanded the closure of this import channel, but for now, Turkish partners are even increasing the volume of Russian fuel sales. The publication also emphasizes that Turkey has received significant discounts on Russian oil and other refined products.

«Turkey, for its part, has taken advantage of Moscow's discounts ranging from $5 to $20 per barrel, increasing its annual purchases from Russia by 34% in 2023 and a staggering 70% this year», Politico stated.

Economist Vaibhav Raghunanda emphasizes that Russian fuel is cheaper than fuel from Saudi Arabia. However, this does not affect ordinary people, as discounts are only given to large companies and traders.

It is noted that sanctions reduce Russia's defense budget expenditures, but Russian troops still receive the necessary equipment and weapons by circumventing sanctions. The publication previously noted that Ukraine might lose the energy war with Russia.

Recall that the United States imposed sanctions against Russian television companies and propagandist Dmitry Kiselyov.