Trump officials press U.S. firms to accept Russian diesel as at least three tankers head for America without buyers

Officials in the Trump administration are pressuring U.S. companies to accept Russian diesel shipments, despite legal and reputational risks. At least three tankers carrying Russian fuel are heading toward the United States after Trump’s October 16 sanctions waiver, but none had buyers when loaded.

Democrats argue the waiver violates sanctions laws and warn that companies could face criminal penalties and future investigations.

U.S. firms are reportedly resisting the shipments despite steep discounts. Analysts suggest the tankers may ultimately divert to Brazil.