US Lawmakers Criticize Biden Administration’s Move to Ease Russian Oil Sanctions

Washington, D.C. – Leading members of the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus have sharply criticized the Biden administration’s recent decision to allow some Russian oil back onto the global market, arguing it undermines international pressure on Russia and provides financial support to Vladimir Putin’s war effort in Ukraine.

Bipartisan Opposition

Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), co-chairs of the Ukraine Caucus, issued a joint statement on March 13, 2026, expressing their concerns. They argued the move represents a step in the wrong direction after years of pushing for stronger sanctions against Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Source

Economic Impact and Concerns

The lawmakers estimate the decision will allow for the sale of 124 million barrels of Russian oil, valued at over $12 billion – roughly equivalent to one week of US oil consumption. They contend that every dollar earned by Russia through energy sales fuels its military operations, prolongs the conflict in Ukraine, and strengthens its partnerships, including with Iran, posing a threat to American servicemembers in the Middle East. Source

Call for Stronger Sanctions

The Congressional Ukraine Caucus leaders urged the administration to reverse its decision and work with Congress to enact stricter sanctions against Russia. They emphasized that sustained economic pressure remains one of the most effective tools to achieve a resolution to the war in Ukraine. Source

Previous Bipartisan Efforts

This criticism follows previous bipartisan efforts to impose significant sanctions on Russia. In April 2025, the same Ukraine Caucus co-chairs – Fitzpatrick, Quigley, Wilson, and Kaptur – introduced legislation targeting Russian government officials and entities linked to the war in Ukraine. The proposed legislation included a 500% tariff on all imports to the United States from Russia and countries funding the war through the purchase of Russian oil, uranium, or petroleum products. Source

Further Legislative Action

Congresswoman Kaptur, Congressman Fitzpatrick, and Ranking Member Gregory Meeks led a bipartisan effort to introduce the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025, further demonstrating a commitment to holding Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine. Source

The lawmakers characterized the easing of sanctions as “appeasement” of Putin, warning it could embolden Russia and threaten Western interests. Source