Trump weighs diesel export ban; Macron rallies G7 leaders over surging energy prices — inside transatlantic energy clash

President Donald Trump announced on Friday that Europe would release diesel reserves "immediately," addressing concerns over surging fuel prices as his Republican Party prepares for the November midterm elections. The president shared the news on social media, without specifying which nations would release the reserves or the quantities involved. The process was set to commence right away.

Trump's comments come as his approval ratings have dropped, amid the Iran war and trade disputes that have driven up oil and other commodity prices globally. In the United States, gas prices have been particularly affected, reaching a record $6.52 per gallon on September 22, according to AAA. The average price in the U.S. for a gallon of diesel stood at $6.37 on Friday.

The president spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron overnight, discussing the need to tackle rising fuel costs and the availability of petroleum products. Macron then led a videoconference of G7 leaders to address the issue. A recent AP-NORC poll revealed that a majority of U.S. adults hold Trump responsible for the higher prices, and his approval rating on handling the economy plummeted to a new low.

Despite the economic challenges, Trump has continued to boast about his economic record, giving himself an A-plus. However, he has lamented that his administration is failing to promote its achievements effectively.