Linda, read the entire article. It explains why. I didn't understand either. Basically, they have to make sure that they are getting paid before they unload the oil. Letters of credit FROM THE BUYERS are required- and the letters are issued TO the sellers. Kinda like a certified check made out to a specific person. The banks wont issue the letters to the current sellers due to the sanctions.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good ...