Trump Eases Sanctions on Moscow, Says It Will Cut Diesel Prices

President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, that he had concluded a discussion with President Vladimir Putin in which Russia agreed to immediately supply over 300,000 tons of diesel fuel to the American and global marketplace, another 500,000 tons during November, and 1,000,000 tons immediately thereafter. Trump added that, based on the condition of their diesel refineries, Russia would then deliver 3,000,000 tons within a short period of time. The Treasury Department said Friday it would lift sanctions on Russian diesel. Russian state media reported Putin confirmed Russia's readiness to supply oil and petroleum. Diesel prices have risen almost 70% since the start of the Iran war in February. Russia had banned diesel exports amid a shortage and late last month extended the ban through the end of October. A few weeks earlier, Trump signed a bill authorizing further sanctions on Russia. The announcement comes with midterm elections less than a month away. Andy Lipow, president of Lipow Oil Associates, said he was skeptical Russia could come up with the promised barrels. Whether the volumes arrive remains open.