Lawmakers Challenge Trump Deal to Ease Russian Diesel Sanctions

United States lawmakers are moving to block a deal brokered by Donald Trump to ease sanctions on Russian diesel imports. The administration announced the agreement in October 2026 to combat record-high fuel prices, which topped $6.50 per gallon in September, by allowing Moscow to provide 300,000 metric tons of diesel to the market.

Senate Democrats are preparing investigations into American companies that participated in the trade. The United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations has requested that these businesses preserve relevant documents in anticipation of congressional probes, which may proceed if Democrats regain control of Congress in the November midterms. Critics of the deal argue that the move jeopardizes American energy security and undermines pressure on Russia.

Simultaneously, Republican Representative Brian Fitzpatrick introduced the Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Act of 2026. This legislation seeks to permanently block Russian oil imports by nullifying General License 135 and prohibiting future waivers. The bill would also restrict the United States Department of the Treasury from funding agreements that violate the Ending Importation of Russian Oil Act of 2022 and mandates increased intelligence cooperation with Ukraine.