Energy Vulnerability in California
Domestic refinery closures reduced capacity by 17-20%.
9 million barrels of oil entered California via the loophole in 2025.
California pump prices approached $6 per gallon due to supply shortages.
Treasury extended a sanctions waiver in April 2025 to allow Russian oil imports.
Critics argue imports fund the Russian war effort amid U.S.-Russia tensions.
California's 'energy island' status limits pipeline access to Gulf Coast refineries.
3 days ago