'Good for Americans': US official defends Russia diesel deal, cites 'legal authority'
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended a new deal to import diesel from Russia, claiming it will lower fuel prices for Americans. The administration asserts it has the legal authority to bypass existing sanctions to secure these energy supplies.
Why it matters
The deal marks a significant shift in US energy policy and sanctions enforcement regarding Russia.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Sunday defended the Trump administration's diesel supply deal with Russia, saying Washington would move ahead with the agreement using its existing legal authority. Speaking to Fox News, Bessent said the deal, announced by President Donald Trump on Friday, would help bring down diesel prices for Americans."We're going to do it with all the legal authorities we have. So, you know, anyone in Congress who says whether it's an old bill or the current Lindsey Graham bill (that) prohibits us from doing it is wrong," he said."This is good for the American people ... bringing these diesel prices down," Bessent added.Bessent's remarks refer to the recent deal US made with Russia on supplying diesel.
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