No Russian diesel registered in US by November 11 as tanker turns away and Trump-Putin deal falls apart

Promised diesel deliveries stall

Trump said in early October that Russia would supply the United States with 300,000 tons of diesel that month, followed by 500,000 tons in November and 1 million tons afterward. A tanker carrying Russian diesel to the U.S. later reversed course.

The proposed deal conflicted with existing U.S. sanctions on importing Russian oil and gas. As of November 11, no Russian diesel had been registered entering the country.

New Jersey warns port operators

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherill warned port operators that unloading Russian diesel could bring civil penalties. Sherill, a U.S. Navy veteran, issued the warning on November 2, according to Military.com.

Ceasefire claim and energy pressures

After announcing the deal, Trump said he had negotiated an “energy ceasefire” between Ukraine and Russia. Russia bombed a Ukrainian energy facility shortly after that announcement. The United States is also facing an oil blockade in the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, initiated after Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran. The article says that even if Russian diesel could be imported, it would not resolve the current U.S. shortage.

Supply doubts and wider costs

Diesel prices affect more than costs at the pump. The fuel is used by long-haul trucks transporting goods across the country, so higher prices can raise the cost of household goods and other necessities.

The Kyiv Post reported questions about Russia’s capacity to provide the promised amount. Ukraine’s renewed strikes on Russian oil refineries have cut oil production by 30% since late October, according to Reuters and the Kyiv Post.