Trump strikes deal with Putin to get diesel in sharp reversal of US policy weeks before midterms

President Donald Trump announced an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to purchase millions of tons of Russian diesel in an effort to lower American fuel prices, which have surged amid the ongoing war with Iran. The agreement represents a significant reversal in U.S. policy. Just one month earlier, Trump signed bipartisan legislation imposing sweeping sanctions on Russia to restrict revenues supporting its war against Ukraine. Under the new arrangement, Russia would initially supply more than 300,000 tons of diesel, followed by 500,000 tons in November and additional shipments totaling millions of tons. The Treasury Department also announced a temporary relaxation of sanctions on certain Russian diesel shipments through April 2027. The announcement triggered immediate criticism. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Washington of undermining Ukraine's defense by providing Russia with additional revenue. Several Democratic lawmakers argued that the agreement contradicts Congress's intention to economically isolate Moscow. Trump defended the decision as necessary to bring down fuel costs for American farmers, truckers, and consumers. According to AAA figures cited in the report, diesel prices averaged $6.28 per gallon, after reaching a record $6.52 in September. However, energy analysts questioned whether the agreement would significantly reduce prices. They noted that redirecting Russian diesel to the United States could simply force existing customers to purchase supplies elsewhere, leaving global prices largely unchanged. The agreement also raises unanswered questions about what Russia might receive in exchange, how the purchases will be financed, and whether Washington can simultaneously enforce sanctions against Russian energy exports while purchasing those same products. The central issue: The Trump administration is attempting to balance immediate economic pressures at home against its longstanding commitment to restricting Russia's ability to finance its war in Ukraine. Whether the diesel agreement meaningfully lowers American fuel prices remains uncertain. Summary based on reporting by Michelle L. Price and Collin Binkley of The Associated Press, published October 9, 2026.