Trump faces growing backlash over plans to import diesel from Russia

Key Points:

• US President Donald Trump announced a deal with Russia to import large quantities of diesel fuel, starting with 300,000 tonnes immediately, despite recent US sanctions on Russian energy imports.
• The move has sparked bipartisan criticism from US senators who argue it violates US laws and provides financial support to Russia amid its ongoing war with Ukraine.
• The US Treasury is suspending sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7 as part of the agreement, but other Russian assets remain frozen, while some Republicans support lifting broader petroleum sanctions.
• Rising global fuel prices due to the US-Iran conflict have pressured Trump to seek ways to lower US diesel costs, especially benefiting agricultural states reliant on diesel for operations.
• Internationally, the deal has been condemned by leaders from Canada and the UK, who urge continued pressure on Russia to end the war rather than easing sanctions.