Crude Oil Gains in Early Trade on Dec 22 Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Crude oil prices climbed in early Asian trade on Monday, December 22, 2025, after reports that the United States intercepted a Venezuelan oil tanker over the weekend. The development added fresh concerns over potential supply disruptions, lifting crude benchmarks after last week’s losses.

Brent crude futures rose 44 cents, or 0.73%, to $60.91 per barrel by 0141 GMT. US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 40 cents, or 0.71%, to trade at $56.92 per barrel.

Weekly Performance Remains Weak

Despite the early gains, both Brent and WTI ended last week lower. The two global benchmarks declined by around 1% over the week, following sharper losses of nearly 4% in the week ended December 8. Market sentiment has remained cautious as investors weigh demand concerns against geopolitical risks and supply-side developments.

Geopolitical Developments in Focus

In addition to the tanker interception, markets are closely tracking geopolitical developments linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. US special envoy Steve Witkoff said on Sunday that talks held over the past three days in Florida between US, European, and Ukrainian officials focused on aligning positions to bring an end to the war. He described both these discussions and separate talks with Russian negotiators as productive.

However, optimism was tempered after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s top foreign policy aide said that changes proposed by European and Ukrainian officials to US peace proposals did not improve the prospects for a settlement.

Other Crude Benchmarks

Other oil benchmarks also traded higher. Murban crude was up 45 cents, or 0.73%, at $62.49 per barrel as of 7:30 AM on December 22.

Also Read: Best Energy Stocks Under ₹100 in India for December 2025!

Conclusion

Oil prices began the week on a firmer footing, supported by geopolitical tensions and renewed supply concerns following the interception of a Venezuelan tanker. However, lingering uncertainties around global demand and the outcome of diplomatic efforts related to the Ukraine conflict may continue to cap sharp upside in crude prices in the near term.

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