New Jersey Governor Warns Ports Against Russian Diesel Shipments
Sherrill’s warning to port operators
Sherrill sent a letter to port and terminal operators in New Jersey, urging them to turn away tankers carrying Russian fuel. She warned that efforts to profit from the trade would bring harsh penalties.
The governor said the shipments would break federal law. She also cautioned that state ports should not assist what she described as unlawful activity.
Trump and Treasury actions
On Oct. 9, the Treasury Department announced a temporary waiver of sanctions on Russia’s energy sector. The department said the move would allow Russian diesel to reach the global market.
Sherrill’s stated objections
Sherrill said the policy would not lower costs and would instead help finance Putin’s war against Ukraine. She also said it would support a global campaign of violence and terror that puts U.S. service members abroad at risk.
The governor cited her Navy service as a reason she could not leave the policy unchallenged. She urged New Jersey ports to avoid becoming complicit in Russian fuel shipments.
Key points
- Sherrill urged New Jersey port and terminal operators to refuse Russian diesel tankers.
- She warned that accepting the fuel would violate federal law and expose participants to harsh penalties.
- Trump said Russia would release millions of tons of diesel for U.S. and global markets.
- The Treasury Department temporarily waived sanctions on Russia’s energy sector on Oct. 9.