Crude oil prices surge as supply risk grows from Russia-Ukraine war

Oil prices surged for a third day as the war in Ukraine neared the one-month mark with no conclusion in sight.
 

Brent topped $111 a barrel, up 14 per cent since its close last Wednesday. The European Union will consider a Russian oil
embargo this week, with US President Joe Biden due in the region for NATO, Group of 7 and EU summits, Reuters reported.
The Kremlin said any such ban would harm everyone.
 

In studying new sanctions, “it is unavoidable to talk about the energy sector,” Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said before a meeting of EU foreign and defense ministers in Brussels. The group will talk about oil because it’s “quite easily replaceable” and generates the most revenue for the Russian budget, he said.
 

The global oil market has been pitched into turmoil by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with the US and Europe imposing penalties on Moscow and crude buyers shunning the country’s cargoes.


Brent neared $140 a barrel earlier this month to hit the highest since 2008, before easing. Prices have seen unprecedented volatility, with frequent intraday swings of about $10 and broader commodity markets seizing up amid a widespread liquidity crunch.
 

“This morning’s price bounce suggests that the oil surge is resuming and may have the legs to carry on for weeks to come,” said Stephen Brennock, an analyst at PVM Oil Associates. “Russian supply uncertainty will likely be a familiar theme for the foreseeable future and will keep price volatility at the higher end of the spectrum.”
 

The Biden administration is stepping up its response to Russia’s invasion. Later Monday, officials will brief energy companies including Exxon Mobil as well as banks on the war and ensuing sanctions. Separately, Biden is due to call counterparts in Europe before traveling to the region later this week.