Trump and Putin reach diesel deal, U.S. senators say it's illegal

Seven bipartisan U.S. senators issued a joint statement today questioning the legality of President Trump's agreement to allow Russian diesel exports, given that the U.S. has imposed an import ban since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Agence France-Presse reported that Trump announced on the 9th that he had reached an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Russia would supply diesel to the United States and global markets in exchange for the temporary relaxation of U.S. sanctions. The move immediately triggered strong backlash from Ukraine, the European Union and many members of the U.S. Congress.

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The joint statement clearly states at the outset: "Congress explicitly bans the import of Russian energy in 2022 to prevent U.S. funds from funding Putin's brutal war against Ukraine."

"Congress is clear: The United States should not import oil from Russia until Russia ends its aggression in Ukraine and stops threatening our NATO allies."

The statement was signed by Democratic Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Richard Blumenthal, and Ron Wyden, and Republican Senators Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, John Curtis, and Thom Tillis.

The statement further stated: "President Trump's decision to allow Russian diesel imports directly violates relevant laws. The executive branch has also failed to consult with Congress as required by law or submit any explanation to justify its decision."

Senators denounced the decision as "providing Putin with an economic lifeline as Russia continues to kill Ukrainian civilians" and urged the Trump administration to "change course immediately."

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the agreement in an interview with Fox News today, saying: "We will use all the legal authority we have to deal with this matter." (Compiled by: He Hongru) 1151012