Russian Diesel Deal Falters as Tankers Divert from US Ports

A deal between Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to import Russian diesel into the United States is faltering as shipments divert and political opposition mounts. The agreement, announced on October 9, aimed to lower record-high fuel prices before the US midterm elections by providing over 300,000 metric tons of diesel immediately, followed by larger shipments in November and December. To facilitate this, the US Department of the Treasury issued General License 135, temporarily lifting sanctions on Russian fuel until April 2027.

Despite claims from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov that the deal is being implemented and has lowered global prices, ship-tracking data shows the plan is collapsing. Of three tankers originally bound for the US Atlantic coast, the Talisman and Leruo diverted toward the Mediterranean and Brazil, respectively, due to existing sanctions from the UK, EU, and Canada. A third vessel, the Agioi Fanendes, changed its status to "for orders" while sailing toward the northeast US coast. No cargo has yet been delivered to a US port.

The arrangement faces intense legal and political backlash. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill warned port operators that handling the fuel would face "harsh penalties," arguing the administration cannot override a congressional import ban. Senator Richard Blumenthal added that a presidential license does not absolve companies of legal accountability. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the deal, stating it provides "additional money for this war against us." While Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev dismissed reports of diversions as "fake," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov maintained that all diesel would find buyers.