WASHINGTON — Key Republican lawmakers pushed back Sunday against President Donald Trump’s decision to ease restrictions on Russian diesel fuel, warning that the move undermines U.S. foreign policy, helps Moscow finance its war against Ukraine, and could violate federal law.
Trump announced on Friday that Russia would immediately release hundreds of thousands of tons of diesel into the global market to alleviate soaring domestic energy costs. However, the plan prompted swift bipartisan criticism on Capitol Hill, where legislators have pointed to existing statutory prohibitions enacted after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Lawmakers cite legal hurdles and funding leverage
Appearing on NBC News’ “Meet the Press” on Sunday, Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., questioned the legality of the arrangement. Tillis noted that the Senate previously passed legislation barring Russian petroleum imports without dissent, and Congress has not authorized any exemptions.
“I do believe there’s a legitimate case for saying the president’s not following the law,” Tillis told moderator Kristen Welker, adding that the arrangement “absolutely will” endanger American lives by aiding the Kremlin. Tillis indicated that he could withhold backing from upcoming year-end military and discretionary spending measures if the administration proceeds without addressing congressional concerns.
In the House, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., announced plans to introduce the Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Act to bar Russian petroleum purchases, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported. Fitzpatrick, who co-chairs the House Ukraine Caucus, stated on social media that he intends to use a discharge petition to bypass leadership and compel a floor vote. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., agreed to co-sponsor the legislation, telling RFE/RL that propping up Moscow’s wartime economy is terrible.
Other Republicans expressed similar reservations. Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, cautioned that lifting sanctions risks fueling Russian attacks on Ukraine. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, urged the White House to employ existing statutory tariff authorities rather than allowing the Kremlin to reap additional energy revenue.
Price impacts doubted as Ukraine tensions rise
The White House deal permits the entry of 300,000 tons of diesel immediately, followed by 500,000 tons in November, with the U.S. Treasury suspending sanctions on those exports through April 7, The Guardian reported. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the move on Sunday, calling it beneficial for reducing prices for domestic consumers.
U.S. diesel prices have climbed roughly 70 percent to about $6.30 per gallon following the onset of conflict with Iran, according to American Automobile Association data cited by The Guardian. However, industry analysts and independent lawmakers questioned whether the imports would provide meaningful relief. The initial 300,000 tons represents approximately three-quarters of a single day of U.S. consumption, according to federal energy data, and tankers could take weeks to arrive.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the administration’s move as weak, prompting Trump to repeatedly call for Ukraine to hold elections and replace its leadership. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also reaffirmed European opposition to easing pressure on Moscow, noting sustained Russian strikes on Ukrainian population centers.
Whether Fitzpatrick can gather the 218 signatures needed for a House discharge petition remains uncertain, particularly with the chamber in recess for several weeks. The administration has not yet clarified how it plans to reconcile the temporary sanctions waiver with the 2022 import prohibition as Congress approaches year-end spending deadlines.
