US President Donald Trump is facing criticism regarding plans to import diesel from Russia as the conflict involving Iran continues to affect global energy prices. On Friday, Trump announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to release 300,000 tonnes of diesel to the American and global marketplace, followed by additional shipments. This announcement comes shortly after Trump signed legislation authorizing new US sanctions and tariffs on nations importing Russian oil and gas.
The deal has drawn criticism from some lawmakers across both parties, who argue it violates US laws. In addition to the initial 300,000 tonnes, Trump stated that Russia would supply 500,000 tonnes in November and one million tonnes thereafter, with a potential for three million tonnes to be delivered monthly, contingent on the condition of Russian refineries.
Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak confirmed these figures to the state-owned news agency Tass, indicating that the export volume could reach three million tonnes per month in the future. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned the deal, calling it a gift to Putin and an investment in a war that needs to be resolved.
Reports suggest that the US Treasury is suspending sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7 as part of the agreement, although other assets in American banks remain frozen. A group of seven senators, including four Republicans and three Democrats, have urged Trump to reconsider the deal, emphasizing that it provides financial support to Russia amid its ongoing military actions in Ukraine.
The senators stated that Congress had explicitly banned Russian energy imports in 2022 to prevent American dollars from funding the war. Notably, Republican Thomas Massie expressed support for lifting sanctions on all petroleum products. Trump's former Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the agreement, asserting that it would utilize existing legal channels to help reduce prices.
Global fuel prices have surged since the conflict involving Iran began in late February, significantly disrupting crude oil supplies. The rising prices have become a critical issue for Americans ahead of the midterm elections, with polls indicating that many disapprove of Trump's handling of the economy and the war.
Currently, the average diesel price in the US is $6.28 per gallon, down from a record high of $6.53 in late September. Analysts have raised concerns about Russia's ability to meet the promised diesel quantities and the impact on prices for American consumers. The US consumes approximately 3.6 million barrels of diesel daily, meaning that even if Russia delivers the initial 300,000 tonnes, it would only cover about half of the US's daily consumption.
Internationally, leaders such as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting have criticized the deal, urging allies to increase pressure on Russia to end the conflict. Trump also announced an 'energy ceasefire' between Russia and Ukraine, which was welcomed by Zelensky, although there was no response from Moscow.