The senators argue that US law prohibits the importation of Russian energy products until Moscow halts its attacks on Ukraine.
Trump says he is taking steps to lower rising petrol and diesel prices, which could undermine his Republican Party’s prospects in the midterm elections scheduled for November 3.
Fuel prices have risen since he launched the war against Iran seven months ago. However, Trump has also blamed Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries for contributing significantly to the increase.
In a social media post, Trump said: “I made the right decision for the American people. America First, always!”
On Friday, Trump announced that Russia had agreed to supply diesel to international markets. His administration subsequently temporarily lifted sanctions that the United States had imposed on Russian petroleum products.
The sanctions were intended to limit Moscow’s revenue, which helps finance its war against Ukraine.
On Sunday, a group of Republican and Democratic senators urged Trump to reconsider the deal. They argued that it could violate a 2022 law designed to support Ukraine in resisting Russia’s invasion.
Republican Senator Jerry Moran said the United States should strengthen sanctions rather than weaken them by allowing Russian diesel imports.
He warned that the move could undermine Washington’s ability to exert pressure on Russia, damage the credibility of its international partnerships and embolden its adversaries.
Over the weekend, Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy exchanged criticism over Ukraine’s attacks on Russian oil refineries.
Trump said Ukraine needed a different president, while Zelenskyy indicated that elections could be held if Russia agreed to a 60-day ceasefire.
On Sunday, Trump also announced that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to halt attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure. However, it remained unclear whether the agreement would be implemented.
Speaking to Fox News on Monday, Zelenskyy rejected the suggestion that Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries were the main reason for rising fuel prices.
“Everyone understands that diesel prices are not driven by our attacks on diesel facilities in Russia. Everyone understands that they are caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
The remarks highlight the disagreement between the two presidents over the causes of rising fuel prices, as the Russian diesel deal continues to face criticism from US senators across party lines.
