US energy secretary says diesel export ban won't work after Trump backs idea

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated on Wednesday that imposing a diesel export ban would not be effective and could lead to increased gasoline and jet fuel prices. President Donald Trump has backed the idea, despite the fact that diesel prices have skyrocketed to record highs due to the Middle East conflict and the Ukraine war.

Wright argued that if the U.S. cannot export the diesel produced in its refineries, it would face a storage crisis and be forced to reduce refining output, which would consequently push up gasoline and jet fuel prices. The ban could also lead to retaliatory actions from countries exporting fuel to the U.S., potentially harming states like California.

The administration is exploring other options to lower fuel prices, including working with the refining industry to increase U.S. diesel supply through voluntary means.