US Sanctions on Russia’s Leading Oil Companies Weigh on Moscow’s Logistics

Oil Prices Surge After a Whiff of Dormancy

After a sluggish spell from October to December, the crude market has erupted back into life. Brent futures smashed through the 200‑day moving average, and Friday’s price highs have left traders and pundits alike wondering if we’re on a steady climb toward the $85 mark.

Supply Edge: The New CEO of the Market

Biden’s fresh sanctions hit Russia’s two biggest oil producers and its tankers, creating a maze of logistical headaches for Moscow.
These moves are marketed as giving Ukraine a powerful bargaining chip for any potential Trump‑led peace talks—though Trump’s appetite for a massive energy price dip may not exactly celebrate the rising barrels.
The cold snap gives buyers extra momentum, while a sharp inventory pull‑back has pushed sellers to step aside. The result? Buyers can lift prices almost effortlessly.
Both Brent and WTI curves are sliding into deep backwardation—great news for those holding long positions because the carry payoff is getting sweeter.

What’s Next on the Horizon?

With supply remaining the prime mover, we’ll be keeping a close eye on fresh sanctions and Russia’s counter‑strategies. For now, the market feels comfortable riding the wave, and higher crude levels look very likely.