WASHINGTON — President Trump said Friday that the United States will purchase substantial quantities of Russian diesel to help counter rising fuel prices, marking a significant foreign-policy shift as the midterm elections approach.
“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,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“Additionally, based on the condition of their Diesel Refineries, Russia will then deliver, within a short period of time, 3,000,000 Tons of Diesel Fuel.”
MORE ON THIS: Los Angeles High School Student’s Fatal Jump After Bullying Prompts Police Investigation, Possible Arrests
On Sept. 18, Trump signed the “Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026.” The law takes effect Oct. 19, imposing a 500% tariff on Russian goods and authorizing secondary sanctions against countries that purchase Russian fuel.
However, the president can waive many of the law’s provisions.
Trump has moved back and forth between imposing tough economic measures aimed at pressuring Russia to end its ongoing invasion of Ukraine and granting temporary relief as the U.S. conflict with Iran drives up energy costs and inflation.
The president introduced sweeping oil sanctions against Russia last October but granted waivers this year to mitigate disruptions caused by the Iran conflict.
