US Treasury Defends Russian Diesel Deal
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has defended the Trump administration’s decision to temporarily allow Russian diesel imports, arguing that the move is legal and aimed at easing fuel costs for American consumers.
Bessent Defends Russian Diesel Deal
Bessent said the Treasury Department has clear legal authority to issue temporary sanctions relief when doing so serves US economic interests.
His comments followed criticism of the administration’s decision to permit qualifying Russian diesel shipments into the United States and global markets.
President Trump has said the arrangement is intended to lower diesel prices, particularly for farmers, truckers and businesses affected by higher transport costs.
US Says Move Will Help Lower Fuel Prices
The administration argues that allowing additional Russian diesel into the market could increase global supply and reduce pressure on prices.
Trump has said Russia will supply hundreds of thousands of tonnes of diesel in the coming months, with further shipments expected later.
Temporary sanctions relief has been granted for qualifying transactions, although broader restrictions on Russia remain in place.
Decision Draws Questions Over India Pressure
The move has attracted scrutiny because Washington has repeatedly criticised countries including India for continuing to buy Russian energy during the Ukraine war.
India has consistently defended its imports on the grounds of affordability, energy security and national interest.
The US decision to facilitate Russian diesel supplies for its own market has therefore renewed debate over the consistency of Western sanctions policy.
Ukraine has also criticised the move, warning that increased Russian energy revenues could weaken economic pressure on Moscow.
