Trump's Russia diesel deal with Putin sparks bipartisan congressional backlash as lawmakers condemn the move as a betrayal of allies and a violation of U.S. law. The deal allows for the import of 2.5 million tons of Russian diesel, a move that has drawn criticism from both Republicans and Democrats.
Six Republican senators, including Mitch McConnell and John Cornyn, signed a letter condemning the deal as a 'betrayal of our allies' and a 'gift to our adversary.' The move is seen as conflicting with a 2022 law that banned the import of Russian energy products to prevent funding for Russia's war against Ukraine.
Congress has already passed legislation to ban the import of Russian energy products, and a new bill named after Sen. Lindsey Graham would impose tariffs on countries importing Russian oil. Trump's deal with Putin is seen as a direct violation of that law and a move that could undermine U.S. standing as an ally.
The deal has also drawn criticism from former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor, who called the move 'a betrayal of our allies' and warned of the 'high cost' to the United States.