Trump lifts sanctions on Russian diesel as US fuel prices soar ahead of midterms

US President Donald Trump has temporarily eased sanctions on Russian diesel imports, securing a commitment from Moscow to supply fuel to global markets. The deal involves the immediate shipment of over 300,000 tonnes of diesel, with additional shipments expected in November and March. US diesel prices have climbed to an average of $6.28 per gallon, posing a political challenge for Republicans ahead of the November midterm elections.

While analysts warn that the additional Russian supplies may have a limited effect on the tight global diesel market, the agreement has drawn criticism from Ukraine and some Republican lawmakers, who argue that Washington should enforce sanctions rather than relax them. The White House is also considering further measures, such as invoking a Cold War-era Defense Production Act to expand US oil and fuel production.