US grants Bangladesh to import Russian fuel

The United States has granted Bangladesh a 60-day waiver allowing it to import fuel oil from Russia despite existing sanctions, according to officials familiar with the matter.

Sources at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the exemption took effect on April 11 and will remain valid until June 9. Washington formally communicated the decision to Dhaka on the same day.

Earlier, on March 12, the US Treasury Department had issued a 30-day waiver covering transactions involving Russian crude oil and petroleum products, which expired on April 11.

The latest move comes amid growing uncertainty in energy imports from Middle Eastern countries due to ongoing regional conflicts. In response, Bangladesh has explored alternative sources, including Russia, to secure its energy supply.

However, US sanctions on Russia complicated the process, prompting Bangladesh to formally seek approval from Washington. Dhaka also sent an official letter requesting the exemption.

In a related development, Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexander Khozin held a meeting with Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman on April 15, where energy cooperation, including fuel supply from Russia, was discussed.

Earlier, on March 31 in Washington, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman met with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright. During the meeting, the United States assured support to help Bangladesh ensure energy security amid the ongoing global supply disruptions.

The foreign minister highlighted the challenges faced by Bangladesh’s energy sector due to disruptions in global supply chains and sought US assistance to safeguard the country’s energy needs.

Discussions also included the possibility of importing fuel refined in third countries using Russian crude as an alternative option.