Brent crude prices retreated from a five-month high on Monday, October 19, 2026, as traders weighed the prospect of increased fuel supplies against persistent geopolitical risks affecting global oil markets.
Brent was trading around $107.50 to $108.50 per barrel, while US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude traded between $98 and $101 per barrel, according to the supplied market figures.
The pullback followed a sharp rally last week, with investors assessing whether potential changes in Russian oil and fuel flows could ease supply constraints. However, tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to Russian energy infrastructure continued to support prices.
US President Donald Trump reportedly signed an executive order on Friday waiving certain sanctions and tariffs on Russia. The reported move, linked to a diesel export arrangement with Moscow, raised expectations that additional Russian fuel could reach international markets.
Despite Monday’s retreat, crude prices remain elevated amid concerns about the availability of oil from the Middle East and Russia.
