The United States has announced a delay in the sale of Russian oil giant Lukoil's international assets. This decision is aimed at exerting pressure on Russia during peace negotiations concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. According to Reuters, the U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control is extending the deadline for a sale that was set to expire on February 28, pushing it to April 1, allowing potential buyers more time to negotiate with Lukoil.

A U.S. official, who was interviewed by Reuters, stressed that the purpose of this deadline extension is to support former President Donald Trump’s efforts to weaken Russia's ability to finance its military operations in Ukraine, thereby promoting peace. Lukoil holds valuable assets—including oil fields, refineries, and gas stations worth approximately $22 billion—which span from Iraq to Finland. This includes Teboil, the brand under which Lukoil operates in Finland, which has been significantly impacted by sanctions against Russia.

Teboil has faced operational challenges such as previously halting fuel sales due to payment transaction issues linked to sanctions. The continued delay of Lukoil’s sale underscores the complex geopolitical situation surrounding the energy sector and highlights how international sanctions are designed to influence not just economic outcomes but also diplomatic engagements concerning the Ukraine crisis.