The Energy Information Administration data arrived as a significant jolt to traders who had braced for rising stockpiles. This sudden tightening of supply has intensified pressure on policymakers struggling to manage volatile energy markets. In response to persistent inflation, the U.S. government is now weighing a potential easing of sanctions on so-called shadow fleets tasked with transporting oil. The move aims to boost global supply and temper the rapid rise in costs that has gripped the industry.