Washington, 15 March 2026 (dpa/MIA) - US President Donald Trump on Saturday defended his administration's decision to temporarily lift some sanctions on Russia following the war with Iran, saying the move was intended to stabilize global energy markets.

"I want to have oil for the world. I want to have oil," he told NBC News when asked about the decision to relax restrictions on purchases as energy prices rise.

Western countries imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow after Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than four years ago. But US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said a few days ago that Russian oil already loaded on tankers could temporarily be sold without penalty.

The measure is intended to increase supply on the global market after oil prices surged due to the war with Iran. The temporary exemption from US sanctions is set to remain in place until April 11.

Germany and other supporters of Ukraine criticized the decision, saying pressure on Russia must be maintained to help end the war.

In the NBC interview, Trump again accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of being a bigger obstacle to ending the conflict than Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"I'm surprised that Zelensky doesn't want to make a deal. Tell Zelensky to make a deal because Putin's willing to make a deal," Trump said. "Zelensky is far more difficult to make a deal with."

Zelensky had offered assistance to US forces and their allies in the Middle East in intercepting Iranian drones in early March, noting that Ukraine had gained extensive experience during four years of war.

Trump dismissed the offer. "We don't need help," he said, adding that the "last person we need help from is Zelensky."

MIA file photo