Trump defends temporary easing of Russian diesel sanctions amid bipartisan criticism

President Donald Trump defended a decision to temporarily lift restrictions on Russian diesel fuel exports, saying the move was in the interest of American consumers. In a post on his social-media platform, Trump claimed the media had avoided coverage of the European Union’s purchases of Russian energy, noting that the bloc had spent roughly $250 billion on Russian fossil fuels since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. He added that the choice was "the right choice for the American People" and emphasized a focus on national interests.

Lawmakers from both parties expressed concern that the policy could provide financial support to Russia while its war in Ukraine continues. A group of seven senators, including four Republicans, issued a joint statement urging that the United States not lift the ban on Russian energy imports until President Vladimir Putin ends the conflict. Representative Michael McCaul, R-Texas, warned that easing sanctions on Russian oil could fund the Kremlin’s war effort.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also criticized the decision, saying the United States’ easing of sanctions "plays into Russia's hands."