Trump cuts deal for 4.8 million tons of Russian diesel
Why it matters: The move reverses fresh US sanctions policy weeks before the midterms and drew a sharp rebuke from Ukraine.
President Donald Trump said he reached a deal with Vladimir Putin for Russia to supply the United States and world markets with Russian diesel, starting with more than 300,000 tons immediately and rising to 4.8 million tons in total. The agreement marks a sharp break from Washington's recent push to squeeze Moscow's energy revenue over its war in Ukraine. Trump framed the move as an attempt to lower diesel costs ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections, with the US average still at $6.28 a gallon after a Sept. 22 record of $6.52, according to AAA. Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the deal as a weak decision that helps fund Russia's war. The White House and Kremlin gave few details on payment, timing or how the fuel would reach market.