Diesel deal divides Washington as fuel prices dominate midterm politics

· Energy · United States · Russia

President Donald Trump's deal to allow Russia to supply diesel to US and global markets has divided Washington, with critics calling it a 'desperate political move' to help Republicans ahead of the November 3 midterms. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz said Trump cares more about his party's political outcome than the cost of living. The BBC's North America correspondent wrote that Trump hopes to ease his party's pain before the elections. Diesel prices are up about 70% since the US-Israeli war with Iran began in February 2026, making fuel costs a key issue for millions of Americans.

Why it matters：The controversy links energy policy, sanctions and US electoral politics, with global implications for oil markets.

Key points

  • Wasserman Schultz called the deal a 'desperate political move.'
  • Diesel prices rose about 70% since the Iran war began.
  • Fuel costs are a top concern for US voters before Nov. 3.

Sources (original reporting)

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