We discuss why oil prices remain high despite the OPEC+ standoff and Trump's influence, as well as the role of threats directed at Russia. Eight OPEC+ countries have announced a new increase in oil production for September, effectively ending their plan to adhere to voluntary production restrictions ahead of schedule. However, the market barely registered this change, as oil prices remained relatively stable. On one hand, OPEC+'s generous output increases are exerting downward pressure on prices...