Trump’s Diesel Lifeline—As Russia’s Economy Struggles

Podcast: Daily Updates on Russian Invasion of Ukraine · Professor Gerdes

Opublikowano: 2026-10-17

I examine the strategic contradiction behind the proposed Russian diesel arrangement and the waiver of Graham Act sanctions. Russia’s promised 300,000 tons of diesel amounts to roughly 14–15 hours of U.S. consumption, while the remaining Russian export volume is a tiny share of monthly American demand. I also look at reported concerns over Russian fuel quality, U.S. certification barriers, congressional opposition, and Macron’s warning that the move could deepen distrust without solving fuel-price pressure. At the same time, I trace mounting strain inside Russia: domestic fuel shortages, reported National Wealth Fund deplet...