Trump faces growing backlash over plans to import diesel from Russia
Donald Trump faces criticism from Republican and Democratic lawmakers after striking a deal to import Russian diesel amid energy crises.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Donald Trump faces mounting backlash from US lawmakers over Russian diesel imports
- Russia agrees to supply an initial 300,000 tonnes of diesel to the US and global markets
- The US Treasury temporarily suspends sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemns the agreement as a gift to Putin
US President Donald Trump is confronting a rising tide of criticism from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers following his announcement to import diesel fuel from Russia, aimed at mitigating soaring energy prices triggered by the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran that began in late February.
Just weeks after signing legislation authorizing fresh sanctions and tariffs on nations importing Russian oil and gas, Trump announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to immediately release 300,000 tonnes of diesel to the American and global marketplace, with additional shipments scheduled thereafter.
Following the initial delivery, Russia is slated to supply 500,000 tonnes in November, one million more subsequently, and an additional three million tonnes within a short period depending on refinery conditions affected by Ukrainian attacks. Trump stated on Truth Social that lowering fuel prices for Americans, particularly farmers, ranchers, and truckers, remains his top priority, while Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak confirmed export volumes could reach three million tonnes monthly.
The decision to source energy from Russia despite existing sanctions highlights intense domestic political pressure as the upcoming midterm elections approach, where Republicans fight to retain congressional control. With average US diesel prices hovering at $6.28 per gallon, the soaring costs severely impact agricultural states dependent on fuel for harvesting and transport.
A bipartisan group of seven senators—Republicans Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Thom Tillis, and John Curtis, alongside Democrats Jeanne Shaheen, Richard Blumenthal, and Ron Wyden—issued a joint statement declaring the deal violates US law and urging the president to reverse course.
"The United States should not provide Putin with a financial lifeline while Russia continues to kill Ukrainian civilians."
US Senators
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the arrangement as a gift to Putin that functions as an investment in a war that must end. International leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, have likewise criticized the pact, emphasizing that Western allies should maintain pressure on Moscow instead.
Source: BBC World
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