Laugh, Russia, and Weep, Europe: If the European Union Doesn't Really Need It, the US Will Gladly Buy Russian Diesel.

 

“On Friday, D. Trump stated that, during a conversation with V. Putin, an agreement was reached for Russia to immediately supply over 300,000 tons of diesel to the US and global markets. Another 500,000 tons are scheduled for delivery in November, followed shortly thereafter by an additional 1 million tons. Furthermore, depending on the operational status of Russian oil refineries, plans are in place to supply another 3 million tons of diesel later on. The US Department of the Treasury has already authorized the supply of Russian diesel and lifted sanctions on it until April 7, 2027.”

 

Easing of sanctions: The US Department of the Treasury (OFAC) issued a temporary general license (General License 135) permitting the sale, supply, and import of Russian-origin diesel until April 7, 2027, in an effort to alleviate the sharp rise in fuel prices on the US domestic market ahead of the midterm elections.

 

 The scarcity and high cost of energy—including diesel—are the primary reasons for the decline of European Union industry and a hindrance to the deployment of robots and artificial intelligence in the region.