Oil prices continue to rise, with the US statement against Russia and a weakening dollar acting as driving factors.

Driven by the expectation of possible US sanctions against Russia, during the European midday trading session, oil prices continued to rise, with Brent crude prices breaking through $71 per barrel. Trump is scheduled to make an "important statement" on the issue of Russia later on Monday. Meanwhile, the escalating global trade tensions are putting pressure on the US dollar, reducing the cost of purchasing oil for holders of other currencies.