Andoya: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has voiced strong opposition to the recent decision by the United States to ease sanctions on Russia, despite the ongoing rise in oil prices due to the Iran conflict. During his visit to the Andoya spaceport in Norway, Merz emphasized that lifting restrictions at this juncture sends the wrong message.

According to Deutsche Welle, Merz discussed the issue with US President Donald Trump during the G7 summit held earlier this week. He highlighted that six members of the G7 expressed a unified stance opposing the US decision. Merz remarked, "We learned this morning that the US government has apparently decided otherwise," questioning the motives behind the US government's choice.

Merz also mentioned his discussions with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store about supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. He stated that Moscow shows no intention to negotiate, and that international pressure should be increased. He reassured that Germany and its allies will maintain their support for Ukraine, undeterred by the Iran conflict.

In response to the US Treasury's decision to issue a temporary license permitting the sale of Russian crude oil and petroleum products until April 11, Merz noted that while there is a price issue, there is no supply problem. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent explained that the initiative aims to boost global supply amidst climbing energy costs.

Merz reaffirmed Germany's stance against participating in any potential international military operations in the Strait of Hormuz. He expressed concerns over Washington's strategy for resolving the conflict and reiterated, "Germany is not part of this war, and we do not want to become part of it."