Stories
Republican Lawmakers Move Bipartisan Bill to Block Trump Russia Diesel Deal
- •Republican Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick announced plans to introduce a bipartisan Bill named the Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Act to block President Donald Trump's move to lift sanctions on Russian diesel.
- •Outgoing Republican Congressman Don Bacon agreed to co-sponsor the legislation, stating that Congress must make a stand against purchasing Russian energy.
- •The legislative push follows Trump's announcement of a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply 300,000 tons of diesel to the US and global markets.
- •Lawmakers from both parties expressed shock and concern that the administration bypassed mandated consultation and formal review processes outlined in the recently passed Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act.
Key Questions Answered
Republican Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick announced plans to introduce the bipartisan 'Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Act' to block President Donald Trump’s decision to lift sanctions on Russian diesel following his talks with Vladimir Putin. The legislation aims to block any and all purchases of Russian oil and is intended to be forced to the floor via a discharge petition.
Following a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump announced a deal for Russia to immediately supply 300,000 tons of diesel to the US and global markets to help lower rising fuel prices. The administration temporarily lifted US sanctions on Russian fuel to ease cost pressures on American consumers, farmers, and truckers ahead of the upcoming congressional elections.
Congressional leaders strongly criticized the agreement, noting that the US Congress had overwhelmingly passed the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act just last month to impose strict tariffs and sanctions. Lawmakers like Senator Richard Blumenthal termed the deal an embarrassment and a violation of existing statutory requirements that mandate formal consultation and review processes before lifting energy restrictions.
