<p>President Donald Trump addressed criticism from Republican lawmakers regarding his agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to procure diesel fuel. The deal, announced last week, involves Russia exporting nearly 5 million tons of diesel to the United States, with 300,000 tons expected in the immediate future.</p>
<p>Trump has been taking measures to address rising fuel prices ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, but some Republicans have expressed concerns about the deal. Lawmakers including Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME), John Curtis (R-UT), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) have criticized the agreement.</p>
<p>In response, Trump stated, “I think these are Republicans that can’t really be serious,” while departing the White House for a campaign trip to Ohio. He emphasized that the U.S. produces a significant amount of oil and mentioned the potential impact of restricting oil exports on the global market.</p>
<p>Trump also noted, “We could do a restriction, you know, a cap on diesel. Keep it all for ourselves. That would have a very big impact,” adding that the deal is beneficial for farmers and ranchers.</p>
<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also indicated that Trump’s deal could complicate efforts to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump suggested that Zelensky should focus on negotiating a resolution to the conflict.</p>