Oil prices declined as traders weighed the impact of European Union measures targeting Russian oil supplies and Ukraine's attacks on Russian energy infrastructure.
The October-delivery WTI crude contract, which expired on Monday, settled near $63 per barrel, while the more actively traded November contract closed at approximately $62. The global benchmark Brent crude finished above $66.
The EU's next round of sanctions aimed at limiting Russian oil revenues will focus on third-country oil sector entities.
Since early August, crude prices have remained within a $5 trading range. Dennis Kissler, senior vice president of trading at BOK Financial, stated that breaking this range would require the US and Europe to agree on tougher measures against Russian oil buyers, "otherwise, imposing stricter sanctions solely on Russia will have limited effect."
Meanwhile, Ukraine claimed it attacked and damaged energy facilities deep inside Russian territory on Saturday, including pump stations on a main oil pipeline. Ukrainian forces had previously targeted two Russian refineries.
"Ukraine's strikes on Russian crude and refined product facilities are a bullish factor supporting oil prices, which can offset some bearish elements," said Bjarne Schieldrop, chief commodities analyst at SEB Bank. "However, the current intensity of attacks is insufficient to cause serious and lasting damage to Russia's oil infrastructure."
November Brent crude fell 0.2% to $66.57 per barrel.
The October-delivery WTI crude, which expired on Monday, declined 0.1% with a settlement price of $62.64 per barrel.
The more actively traded November WTI futures contract dropped 0.2% to close at $62.28.