German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on Friday that Germany was not informed in advance of the United States' decision to lift certain restrictions on Russian oil. Merz said that Germany became aware of Washington's waiver on the morning it was issued, a move that permits the purchase of sanctioned Russian oil and petroleum products that had been stranded at sea.
Delivering remarks while on a visit to Norway, the chancellor said he would like clarity on the motivations behind the U.S. action. He did not provide further detail on any follow-up steps Berlin might take, but emphasized the need to understand the rationale for Washington's waiver.
In the same appearance, Merz was asked about the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz and whether Germany should consider extending military protection to shipping lanes in the region. He rejected the idea, saying there is no reason for Germany to provide such protection.
"Germany is not part of this (Iran) war, and we do not want to become part of it," Merz said.
The comments came amid questions over the movement of sanctioned crude and petroleum cargoes that had been left at sea following restrictions. The U.S. waiver referenced by Merz specifically addresses purchases of sanctioned Russian oil and petroleum products that were stranded on vessels.
Merz made his remarks publicly while in Norway on Friday. He reiterated his position that Germany should refrain from entering military engagements related to conflicts in the Gulf, framing that stance as a clear boundary for German involvement.
Beyond expressing the desire for an explanation from Washington, the chancellor did not outline any immediate diplomatic responses or policy changes by Berlin in reaction to the waiver. His statements focused on securing an understanding of the decision and on asserting Germany's reluctance to participate in military measures connected to the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Reporting note: The account above reflects statements attributed to the chancellor during his visit to Norway on Friday and describes the U.S. waiver as reported by the chancellor.