Oil prices extended gains for a third session on Monday, with Brent rising above $81 a barrel to its highest in more than four months, as wider U.S. sanctions are expected to affect Russian crude exports to top buyers China and India.

The Biden administration has imposed some of its toughest sanctions yet on Russia, in a move designed to hit Moscow's energy revenue that is fuelling its war in Ukraine. The measures target more than 200 entities and individuals ranging from traders and officials to insurance companies,

The White House has announced new sanctions against Russian oil companies, which are expected to cost Russia billions of dollars per month. The restrictions target Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, as well as 183 ships involved in oil exports.

Oil prices hit their highest level in more than three months on Monday's open, extending their rally on expectations that wider U.S. sanctions will affect Russian crude supplies to the world's top and third largest importers China and India.

The White House has announced new sanctions against Russian oil companies, aimed at causing Russia losses of billions of dollars monthly. The restrictions include Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegaz, as well as 183 ships associated with oil exports.