WASHINGTON (Realist English) . US President Donald Trump announced reaching an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin on supplies of Russian diesel to the US and global markets. The US Treasury Department immediately issued a temporary authorization, effectively suspending sanctions against Russian diesel. This is an emergency measure to contain fuel prices ahead of the midterm elections.
Contents of the agreement: phased supplies
Trump announced on Truth Social that he had a “very successful discussion” with Putin. According to him, the Russian side agreed to immediately supply more than 300,000 tonnes of diesel. In November — another 500,000 tonnes. Immediately after that — another 1 million tonnes. He also stated: Russia will supply another 300,000 tonnes “in a short time,” depending on the condition of Russian refineries.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak confirmed the schedule. 300,000 tonnes in October. 500,000 — in November. 1 million — in December. He also stated: the Russian domestic market will be fully supplied with diesel. Novak said: Russia “immediately begins lifting restrictions on diesel exports,” earlier than planned.
Sanctions reversal
The US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) immediately after Trump’s announcement issued General License No. 135. It authorizes “all transactions related to the sale, supply, discharge, or import of diesel of Russian origin, including import into the US.” The license is valid until April 7, 2027.
This step sharply contrasts with the comprehensive sanctions law against Russia signed by Trump a month ago. Since 2022, the US has never imported Russian oil or gas. At that time, the Biden administration banned imports of Russian energy carriers. Notably: EU and UK import bans, as well as the $100 per barrel price cap on petroleum products, remain fully in force.
Political motive: midterm elections and diesel prices
The immediate backdrop of the agreement is the midterm elections on November 3. Since the start of the US and Israeli war with Iran in February, diesel prices in the US have risen by about 70%. On October 8, the national average price reached $6.28 per gallon. Diesel is widely used in agriculture, home heating, and trucking. The sharp rise in its price poses a direct threat to Republicans in the elections.
Trump stated directly: “Lowering prices for Americans, especially for our great farmers, ranchers, and truckers, is my top priority.”
