News Wrap: Trump announces diesel deal with Russia

PBS NewsHour and BBC report that President Donald Trump announced a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin for Russian diesel, aimed at easing fuel prices before the midterms. Trump said 300,000 tons would come immediately, with more later. BBC adds that he cited 500,000 tons in November and a million after, and that the Treasury is understood to be suspending sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7. Neither government has explained the mechanics, PBS notes, according to PBS NewsHour · BBC.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the arrangement a gift to Putin, describing it as "an investment in a war that must be ended, not prolonged." BBC reports that EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas said easing sanctions gives Moscow more revenue for war. PBS notes Trump signed a law last month targeting Russian energy revenue.

Quilter Cheviot strategist Tim Armitage told BBC the first tranche equals about 2.25 million barrels, against U.S. daily consumption near 3.8 million, so pump prices will not change materially. Putin confirmed willingness to supply but gave no amounts, BBC says.

Summarized by PolitiKool from PBS NewsHour · BBC and BBC’s reporting. Read the full story at PBS NewsHour · BBC → Also at BBC →