Trump Announces Russian Diesel Imports After Call with Putin, Easing Sanctions

US President Donald Trump announced on October 10 that large quantities of Russian diesel fuel would be imported into the United States following a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Over 300,000 tonnes are immediately available, with another 500,000 tonnes expected in November, Trump wrote on social media, predicting the move would significantly lower fuel prices.

The US Treasury Department issued a temporary import license valid until early April 2027, partially lifting sanctions that had been imposed on Russian energy companies in response to Russia's war against Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the deal 'unworthy,' saying it would provide Putin's war machine with additional revenue. The Kremlin confirmed the agreement and expressed readiness to export oil and other commodities. The deal comes weeks before US midterm elections, as rising fuel prices have put Trump and Republicans under domestic political pressure.