Key Takeaways
- President Trump defended a diesel oil deal with Russia despite complaints from lawmakers.
- The agreement may violate US law barring Russian energy imports until Ukraine conflict ends.
- Trump blames Ukraine for rising fuel prices, while Zelenskiy disputes the claim.
President Donald Trump defended a diesel oil deal with Russia, stating it was made to bring down high fuel prices. However, lawmakers from both parties criticized the agreement, arguing it may violate US law.
In a social media post, Trump said, 'I made the right choice for the American People — ALWAYS, AMERICA FIRST! President DONALD J. TRUMP,' highlighting his commitment to the country's interests.
On Friday, Trump announced that Russia had agreed to supply diesel to global markets and his administration temporarily lifted US sanctions on Russian fuel. This move was aimed at reducing high fuel prices, which have surged since the start of the Iran war seven months ago.
Republican Senator Jerry Moran and a group of Democratic senators called on Trump to reverse the course on the diesel supply deal, warning that it may violate a 2022 law designed to support Ukraine.
Trump blamed Ukraine for the rise in fuel prices, stating that attacks on Russian oil refineries were a leading factor. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy disputed this claim, telling Fox News that the prices on diesel depend on the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz.
The disagreement between Trump and Zelenskiy over the Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries has added to the political tension surrounding the deal. Zelenskiy also suggested that Ukraine’s attacks were not the primary cause of rising fuel prices.
Trump and Zelenskiy have been at odds over the Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries, with Trump calling for a new Ukrainian president and Zelenskiy promising elections if Russia agrees to a 60-day ceasefire.
The future of the diesel deal remains uncertain, with both sides presenting conflicting views on its impact and legality.
I made the right choice for the American People — ALWAYS, AMERICA FIRST!
President Donald Trump, President of the United States
We should be tightening sanctions further, not undercutting them by allowing the import of Russian diesel and risking erasing our leverage, damaging our credibility with allies, and emboldening our adversaries.
Republican Senator Jerry Moran, US Senator
