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Trump faces growing backlash over plans to import diesel from Russia
Overview
US President Donald Trump is facing domestic and international criticism over a deal to import diesel from Russia in an effort to lower soaring fuel prices ahead of the midterms. Lawmakers from both parties, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and international allies have condemned the agreement, arguing it violates US laws and provides a financial lifeline to Vladimir Putin during the war in Ukraine. The US Treasury is suspending sanctions on Russian diesel exports until 7 April as part of the arrangement, while the White House defends the move as a necessary step to help American consumers and agricultural sectors.
Key points
- President Trump announced an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to import initial shipments of 300,000 tonnes of diesel, followed by millions more.
- The US Treasury is suspending sanctions on Russian diesel exports until 7 April as part of the deal.
- A bipartisan group of seven US senators stated the deal violates US laws banning Russian energy imports and urged Trump to reverse course.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticised the agreement as an investment in Russia's war effort.
- Global fuel prices have surged following the US-Israel war with Iran, creating political pressure for Trump ahead of upcoming midterms.
- International figures, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, have also opposed the arrangement.