First Russian diesel cargo sails for the US under new deal
One Turn followed this story across 3 editions, from Moscow, Russia on October 19, 2026. Newest first.
Western countries curbed Russian energy imports after its 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. High diesel prices have become a US midterm election issue.
The Malta-flagged tanker Agioi Fanendes left Russia's Baltic port of Primorsk on Friday with about 40,000 tonnes, or 300,000 barrels, of diesel bound for New York, where it is due on November 7. The Kremlin confirmed the shipment, which follows a deal Trump said he struck with Putin, despite Ukraine's protests. US diesel prices stand at $6.30 a gallon.
Why it matters: Resumed Russian fuel imports mark a shift in US energy trade with Russia while the war in Ukraine continues.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said the first Russian diesel tanker, of 40,000 tons, would leave for an undisclosed US port on Thursday, with more shipments to follow. The arrangement, which eases sanctions on Russia, has angered Kyiv and European capitals, according to Euronews.
Why it matters: Russian diesel imports would add supply to a US market facing high fuel prices while loosening Western sanctions pressure on Moscow.
The Wall Street Journal reported Putin proposed a summit next month with Trump and Xi Jinping on ending the war, without Zelenskyy. Ukraine's foreign minister Andrii Sybiha said such a meeting would encourage Putin to prolong the war; the idea also raised concern in Asia.
Why it matters: A great-power deal over Ukraine's head would reshape European security and alarm US allies in Asia.