https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/us-senators-call-american-imports-of-russian-diesel-fuel-unlawful/4085517
US senators call American imports of Russian diesel fuel unlawful

Bipartisan group says Washington must not offer Russian President Vladimir Putin a 'financial lifeline' after Trump announces agreement
Yasin Gungor
12 October 2026•Update: 12 October 2026

ISTANBUL
A bipartisan group of seven US senators said Sunday that importing Russian diesel fuel into the United States is unlawful and called on the administration to stop the shipments immediately.

"Congress explicitly banned Russian energy imports in 2022 to prevent American dollars from financing (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's brutal war against Ukraine," the lawmakers said in a joint statement, asserting that Washington should not buy fuel until Moscow ends its "aggression” against Ukraine and halts "threats" against NATO allies.

The group warned that the administration moved without legal backing, adding that US President Donald Trump's decision to allow Russian diesel imports into the US "runs directly counter to that law."

The lawmakers stressed that Washington must not offer Putin a "financial lifeline."

"The Administration has also failed to consult with Congress or submit any explanation to justify its decision as required by statute," they said.

The statement was co-signed by Democratic Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Richard Blumenthal and Ron Wyden alongside Republican Senators Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Thom Tillis and John Curtis.

The objection follows an announcement Friday by Trump detailing an agreement reached with Putin for Russia to supply more than 300,000 tons of diesel to US and global markets immediately, followed by 500,000 tons in November, 1 million tons thereafter and a subsequent delivery of 3 million tons.

Zelenskyy criticized the deal as a "gift" to Putin, warning that the easing of restrictions on Russian diesel exports could help finance Moscow's war effort.