Trump announced on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to release 300,000 tonnes of diesel immediately, with further shipments planned for the coming months. Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak confirmed to the state-owned Tass news agency that export volumes could eventually reach three million tonnes per month. The move has drawn criticism from lawmakers in both parties, who argue it violates US law. Seven senators - four Republicans and three Democrats - said on Sunday the deal violated existing legislation and urged Trump to abandon it. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the arrangement a gift to Putin that amounted to investment in Russia's war.
The backlash extends beyond Congress. UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have both criticised the deal. However, Trump's Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Fox News the agreement operated through existing legal channels and would help reduce fuel prices.
Global fuel prices have risen sharply since conflict between the US and Iran began at the end of February, disrupting crude oil supplies. The average US diesel price stands at $6.28 per gallon according to the AAA, down from a record $6.53 in late September. Agricultural states have been particularly affected, as farming operations depend heavily on diesel.
Some analysts have questioned whether Russia can supply the promised quantities and whether deliveries would meaningfully reduce American prices. The US consumes approximately 3.6 million barrels of diesel daily. Trump announced Sunday that Russia and Ukraine had reached an energy ceasefire, which Zelensky welcomed, though Moscow has not responded.