US senators question legality of Trump’s Russian diesel deal

US President Donald Trump is facing bipartisan opposition over a deal to allow Russian diesel imports into the country, with seven senators warning that the move could violate legislation passed after Russia invaded Ukraine.

The senators, comprising three Democrats and four Republicans, questioned the legality of the agreement announced by Trump on Friday following discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The deal reportedly involves releasing a significant quantity of Russian diesel in exchange for temporarily easing US sanctions.

The decision has drawn criticism from Ukraine, the European Union and American lawmakers, with opponents warning that easing restrictions could provide Moscow with additional revenue while its war against Ukraine continues.

Senators say deal conflicts with US law

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the seven senators argued that Congress had explicitly prohibited Russian energy imports in 2022 to prevent American money from helping fund Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

They said the legislation was clear that the US should not import Russian oil while Moscow continued its aggression against Ukraine and threats against NATO allies.

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

The lawmakers also criticised the Trump administration for allegedly failing to consult Congress or provide the explanation required under the relevant legislation.

They called on the administration to reverse its decision, arguing that the arrangement could provide Putin with financial support while Russian attacks continue to kill Ukrainian civilians.

Trump administration defends the agreement

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the administration’s position during an interview with Fox News on Sunday.

Bessent said the government intended to proceed using the legal powers available to it.

The comments come as questions remain over the legal basis for temporarily easing restrictions on Russian diesel imports and whether the administration’s approach complies with existing US law.

The senators’ objections do not, on their own, establish that the agreement is illegal. The dispute centres on whether the administration can lawfully authorise the imports under the current sanctions framework.

The controversy adds to tensions surrounding Washington’s approach to Russia and the economic measures introduced in response to the war in Ukraine.

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Source: IOL