Senators Urge President Trump to Cancel Diesel Deal with Russia

On October 13, 2026, President Trump departed from the White House after stopping to speak with reporters. A bipartisan group of senators is urging him to withdraw his recent diesel agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, labeling it a ‘betrayal of the people of Ukraine.’

Last week, Trump announced on social media that he had negotiated a deal with Russia to deliver over 300,000 tons of diesel to the American and global market. This delivery will be followed by an additional 500,000 tons in November and another one million tons shortly after. Furthermore, Trump stated Russia would send 3,000,000 tons of diesel fuel based on the condition of their refineries.

The announcement surprised lawmakers who had passed legislation in the summer, aiming to impose strict tariffs on the major importers of Russian oil. These sanctions target Russian officials, companies, and financial institutions aiding Russia’s efforts in Ukraine. Named after the late GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham, the legislation was instrumental in gaining Trump’s support.

‘This deal is a gift to our adversary and a betrayal of our allies; it should be rescinded,’ wrote six Republican and six Democratic senators in a letter addressing the president. They stated the agreement made with President Putin on October 9 would not bring positive outcomes, nor would it benefit Americans.

Despite recognizing the need to reduce energy costs for Americans, the senators asserted that the deal would provide ‘limited to no relief.’ They emphasized the agreement could help Putin fund Russia’s military operations and persist in attacks on Ukrainian civilians.

In response to the letter, the White House referred to Trump’s comments on Tuesday. President Trump indicated concerns that proceeds from the diesel agreement might be used by Russia to procure weapons. ‘Nobody’s telling me anything,’ Trump said, clarifying that the diesel contribution was meant for the world market, not the United States, addressing global high price issues.

The letter was signed by Democrats Richard Blumenthal, Chris Coons, Dick Durbin, Jack Reed, Jeanne Shaheen, and Sheldon Whitehouse, alongside Republicans Alan Armstrong, Susan Collins, John Cornyn, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, and Thom Tillis.