The Government has softened planned sanctions banning imports of diesel and jet fuel refined from Russian oil in third countries, citing concerns over rising fuel prices and supply disruption caused by conflict in the Middle East. The move comes amid ongoing instability around the Strait of Hormuz because of the US-Israel conflict with Iran. While ministers insist that existing sanctions on Russia remain intact, the full ban on Russian-derived fuel imports via countries such as India and Turkey will now be introduced gradually over coming months. Critics, including Ukrainian officials and opposition MPs, warn the delay could still generate income for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine. Energy analysts have also questioned whether the policy change will significantly reduce fuel costs. The Government maintains it is strengthening sanctions overall while allowing temporary flexibility to stabilise fuel supplies and avoid economic disruption. The debate highlights the growing tension between maintaining pressure on Russia and protecting national energy security during an increasingly volatile global crisis.