President Donald Trump stated on October 9, 2026, that Russia will supply over 4 million tons of diesel to the global market as part of a deal made with President Vladimir Putin during a phone call. According to Trump, Russia will initially provide more than 300,000 tons of diesel, followed by 500,000 tons in November, and an additional 1 million tons thereafter. The delivery of the remaining 3 million tons will depend on the condition of Russia's refineries.
The U.S. Treasury Department has temporarily waived sanctions on Russian diesel through April 2027 under a general license issued on the same day. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the deal, stating that easing sanctions without a commitment from Russia to de-escalate the conflict will prolong the war. Zelenskyy remarked, "Gifts to Putin will not bring peace or any benefit to the civilized world. Russia will 'repay' the diesel with further terror and perfidy. Allowing Russia to sell petroleum products is an investment in a war that must be ended, not prolonged."
Diesel prices have increased globally due to attacks on Russian refineries by Ukraine, which has led Moscow to ban diesel exports. Additionally, conflicts in the Middle East have further constrained fuel supplies. Trump is facing political pressure to address rising fuel prices ahead of the November midterm elections, particularly in conservative areas like Iowa, where farmers are affected by high diesel costs.
Despite considering a diesel export ban last month, Trump decided against it after warnings from the oil industry that such a ban would raise gasoline prices. Earlier in the week, he issued an executive order allowing truckers to use tax-exempt off-road diesel on highways without facing federal penalties, although this order only defers tax obligations, leading to confusion about potential future payments.