German Chancellor Merz Slams US for Easing Russian Oil Sanctions, Calls Move 'Wrong'

• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized the US decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil, calling it "wrong" and a "wrong signal."
• The US move, under Donald Trump's administration, allows temporary delivery of sanctioned Russian crude to control rising global oil prices.
• Merz warned that relaxing restrictions could undermine pressure on Moscow and allow Russia to exploit the Iran conflict against Ukraine.
• Other European leaders, including a spokesperson for British PM Keir Starmer and Antonio Costa, echoed concerns about the decision.
• Germany, a strong Ukraine supporter, fears the US focus on Iran could divert attention from Ukraine's needs.