Oil Prices Fluctuate as U.S. Stockpiles Build and Supply Risks Persist

Rising U.S. crude inventories and global supply uncertainties drive mixed movements in oil markets.

U.S. crude inventories increased by 3.34 million barrels last week, according to the American Petroleum Institute, with official Energy Information Administration data expected later today.
Brent crude prices hovered around $76 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude remained near $72 per barrel, reflecting market indecision.
Russia reported a 30%-40% reduction in oil flows through the Caspian Pipeline Consortium after a Ukrainian drone attack, potentially affecting up to 380,000 barrels per day of supply.
Cold weather in the U.S. has disrupted oil production in North Dakota, with output potentially down by as much as 150,000 barrels per day.
Concerns over global economic growth, fueled by U.S. tariffs on imports and weak demand forecasts in Europe and China, continue to weigh on oil prices.