The US has temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian oil, a major policy shift aimed at reducing global energy prices. The move comes as the Trump administration faces a surge driven by the Iran war. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that releasing the crude could add hundreds of millions of barrels to world markets, potentially reducing prices near $100 a barrel. The decision marks a sharp shift in Washington's strategy to punish Moscow for its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which led to sweeping sanctions on Russia's energy sector. Ukrainian Ukrainians in Alaska see Moscow's energy revenue as central to the war that has already stretched into a fifth year. Zori Opanasevych, executive director of the nonprofit New Chance, Inc. said many Ukrainians see the war as being funded by Russia's oil revenue. The U.S. and several Middle East allies are now seeking Ukraine’s expertise in countering Iran-made Shahed drones.