From NBC News · Megan Brand · · 2m
Tillis says Trump's Russia fuel deal may break the law
Republican senator warns easing sanctions on Russian diesel could violate existing law and endanger American lives.
In brief
Republican senator warns easing sanctions on Russian diesel could violate existing law and endanger American lives. Sen. Thom Tillis told NBC News he believes President Trump's decision to ease sanctions allowing Russia to sell diesel fuel may violate law Congress passed in 2022. Originally reported by NBC News.
Tillis questions Trump's legal authority
Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., told NBC News on Sunday that President Trump's decision to ease sanctions on Russia may be breaking the law.
“I do believe there's a legitimate case for saying the president's not following the law”
Trump announces Russian diesel sales
Trump announced Friday on Truth Social that Russia would immediately supply hundreds of thousands of tons of diesel fuel to the global marketplace, with more than one million additional tons soon on the way.
Ukraine and critics condemn the move
The announcement drew sharp condemnation from Ukraine and critics of the Trump administration over the easing of sanctions on Russia.
Congress banned Russian oil in 2022
Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Senate unanimously passed a bill in 2022 to ban Russian oil imports. Congress has not changed the law to reflect Trump's announcement.
Tillis: deal puts American lives at risk
Asked whether Trump's deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin puts American lives at risk, Tillis said it absolutely will, pointing to Russian funding of mercenaries and the Kremlin's relationship with Iran.
“It absolutely will”
Tillis links support to year-end funding
Tillis referenced year-end congressional funding negotiations when asked what the Senate could do, saying the president needs to understand this is a problem if he wants his support.
“If the president wants my support, which I believe he should get for funding military operations and year-end funding beyond baseline funding, I think the president needs to understand this is a problem”
Tillis also criticizes Pentagon execution plan
On Sunday, Tillis condemned the Pentagon's plan to livestream the execution by firing squad of Nidal Hasan, convicted in the 2009 mass shooting in Fort Hood, Texas, saying it would radicalize people.
Tillis calls for Hegseth's removal
Tillis said the livestream plan exemplifies why Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth needs to leave the Department of Defense, calling him a failed leader despite voting for his confirmation.
“This is not who we are, and it's another example of why Pete Hegseth, in all of his bravado, needs to get the hell out of the Department of Defense”
The short version
Sen. Thom Tillis told NBC News he believes President Trump's decision to ease sanctions allowing Russia to sell diesel fuel may violate law Congress passed in 2022.
