Russian Diesel Not for Us, but for World Markets: Trump
The temporary licence lets Russian diesel reach global markets as Trump says the move will ease prices and critics warn it weakens sanctions.
- On October 9, 2026, President Donald Trump announced an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply diesel to global markets, with the Treasury Department issuing a license easing sanctions until April 7, 2027.
- Last month, Congress passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which President Trump signed into law to apply economic pressure on Russia; the new diesel arrangement directly counters this bipartisan legislative strategy.
- The initial 300,000 tons of Russian diesel equals over 2 million barrels, covering less than one day of American consumption; Forbes estimates the fuel would last 11 minutes on the global market, offering negligible price relief.
- Senators including Susan Collins and Angus King wrote to Trump on Tuesday, terming the Russia deal a "gift to our adversary and a betrayal of our allies" while urging the White House to rescind the authorization.
- Future deliveries of 500,000 tons next month and 1 million tons in December will test the administration's balance of energy and geopolitical costs, as senators warn Russia's revenue will finance its war of attrition against Ukraine.
299 Articles
299 Articles
The great powers rely on diesel and deals, the old continent feels committed to principles, and in the background the interim elections are waiting in the USA. A comment by Maurice Olivier Dorffer.
BRUSSELS. The US-Russia diesel deal is redrawing the playing field again and making EU leaders see red. “It is incredibly worrying and we deeply regret it,” says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on his way into the meeting. At the same time, more EU countries continue to import oil and gas from Russia.
From the perspective of the Asian superpower, the deal between the leaders of the US and Russia confirms the belief that sanctions are not leading to a resolution of the crisis.
The US suspends the sanctions against Russian fuel. This puts the US at risk what Europe and Ukraine have built for years.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 42% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
