Trump announced a diesel deal with Russia, securing 300,000 tons of diesel fuel for the American and global marketplace, despite concerns over its impact on oil prices. The deal comes as Congress pushes back against the move, which could lift sanctions on Russian energy imports.
The deal was announced via social media, with Trump citing agreement with Putin on immediate supply of diesel. Neither Washington nor Moscow provided details on the deal's mechanics. Analysts question its effectiveness in curbing oil prices. Trump also announced the appointment of new White House press secretary Katie Zacharia.
Congress condemned the deal, with a bipartisan group of senators stating that lifting sanctions on Russian energy imports would allow American dollars to fund Putin's war in Ukraine. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee expressed concern over the move, which could undermine efforts to restrict Russian energy revenues. The Supreme Court previously allowed Trump to pursue the firing of Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, who is under investigation for potential misconduct.