Trump Announces Diesel Fuel Deal with Russia
On Friday, President Donald Trump revealed that Russia has consented to deliver millions of tons of diesel fuel to both the U.S. and international markets, following a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In a post on Truth Social, the president mentioned that the initial shipments would commence immediately, with a plan for larger volumes to be delivered throughout November and into the future.
Trump outlined a delivery plan that scales up:
“I have just concluded a highly successful discussion with President Vladimir Putin, of Russia, wherein it was agreed that Russia will immediately supply over 300,000 tons of diesel fuel to the American and global marketplace, another 500,000 tons during the month of November, and 1,000,000 tons immediately thereafter.”
He also indicated that Russia might provide an additional 3,000,000 tons, depending on the operational state of its refineries.
The president connected this arrangement to U.S. influence in the Persian Gulf, where American military forces have been active throughout the conflict with Iran.
“With our total control of the Strait of Hormuz and this significant announcement regarding Russian energy, diesel prices for Americans—and indeed the world—will be coming down in record numbers and quickly!” Trump stated.
He emphasized lowering prices for American farmers, ranchers, and truckers as a priority, concluding his statement with a firm declaration regarding Iran.
“Iran will not have a nuclear weapon!” Trump asserted.
This announcement follows the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which the president signed into law last month. The act, effective from October 19, sets tariffs of up to 500 percent on Russian goods and permits secondary sanctions on nations that buy Russian fuel.
It’s important to note that many provisions of this law can be waived by the president.
Previously, Trump imposed significant oil sanctions on Russia in October but granted waivers this year, citing disruptions stemming from the conflict with Iran that led to increased energy prices and inflation.
The deal comes at a time when diesel prices hover around a record high of approximately $6.50 a gallon, just weeks ahead of the November midterms. Last week, Trump mentioned that Europe had agreed to release diesel reserves “immediately,” and shortly after, he signed an order to broaden access to tax-exempt red-dyed diesel at a rally in Nebraska.
