Recently, escalating tensions between the US and Iran have triggered a sharp rise in international oil prices, unexpectedly allowing Russia to achieve a turnaround under Western sanctions, rendering the sanctions ineffective.

The Financial Times reports that Russia is expected to receive an additional $3.3 billion to $5 billion in oil and gas revenue by the end of March. If high oil prices continue for a quarter, the additional revenue could reach as high as $75 billion. Russia's annual budget deficit is only 3.786 trillion rubles; at this rate, it could be filled in three months. Previous rounds of Western sanctions attempted to contain Russia through the energy sector, but the soaring oil prices have rendered these sanctions ineffective, leaving Europe in a dilemma due to its energy needs.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has lasted for four years. The Biden administration had fully supported Ukraine in its fight against Russia. Policy changes during the Trump era, coupled with the current oil price volatility, have become a "helping force" for Russia's breakthrough. The West intended to cripple Russia through sanctions, but unexpectedly, Russia has become "richer with the war" thanks to its energy advantages, significantly improving its fiscal situation. In stark contrast, Ukraine suffered heavy casualties and severe infrastructure damage in the war, posing a significant challenge to the Zelensky government.

With its financial situation improving, Russia demonstrated its responsibility as a major power by extending a helping hand to Cuba, with 730,000 barrels of oil soon to arrive, contributing to Cuba's economic and social stability.