Oil prices leap 6%; Asia markets set to open mixed as investors assess Russia-Ukraine crisis

Oil prices leap 6%; Asia markets set to open mixed as investors assess Russia-Ukraine crisis

SINGAPORE — U.S. crude was up more than 6%, and shares in Asia-Pacific were set to open mixed on Monday as investors monitor the Russia-Ukraine crisis and related sanctions. U.S. were 6.2% higher at $97.27 per barrel in Asia trade. International benchmark crossed the $100 level last week, even touching $105 before paring gains. It last traded at $102.90 per barrel. , traditionally a safe haven in times of uncertainty, last traded at $1,913.59, rising 1.38%. Japan's futures were mixed, pointing to a higher open of 26,970 in Osaka and a lower open of 26,470 in Chicago. The index closed at 26,476.50 on Friday. The  in Australia was up 0.33% in early trade. Elsewhere, Taiwan markets are closed for a holiday on Monday. Global markets were volatile last week following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. U.S. stocks climbed before closing on Friday, but futures were falling in overnight trade on Sunday. Russia continued its advance into Ukraine over the weekend, with reports of fighting on the streets and forces encircling Kyiv. President Vladimir Putin on Sunday put his country's deterrence forces, which reportedly include nuclear capabilities, on high alert in response to international backlash to Russia's invasion. The U.S. and