Trump lifts sanctions on Russian diesel

President Trump has proposed lifting sanctions on Russian energy imports. A bipartisan group of senators, including Democrat Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, has objected to the move.

Law requires congressional approval

In two thousand twenty-two, Congress passed a law expressly prohibiting Russian imports. The law says the administration can only lift the ban if it consults Congress and gets agreement to conditions Congress sets forth.

Shaheen questions deal's authenticity

Senator Shaheen says there is no reason to believe the deal with Russia is authentic. She questions whether Russia even has any diesel to give to the United States.

“there's no reason to believe this deal is authentic”

Russia's energy crisis limits supply

Russia has faced strikes against its energy infrastructure, creating long lines of cars and trucks waiting to fill gas tanks and diesel. Shaheen says this limits Russia's ability to export fuel.

Trump blames Iran war on others

Shaheen says Trump is trying to pretend Americans suffer high gas and diesel prices for reasons other than the war in Iran.She says the president started that war and is being played by Vladimir Putin.

“he is being played by Vladimir Putin”

Trump blames Ukraine for energy strikes

The president has blamed Ukraine for striking Russian energy facilities, suggesting this is a factor in high diesel prices. Shaheen rejects this claim entirely.

Ukraine defends itself against Russia

Shaheen says Ukraine is defending its country against Russian attacks killing civilians by the hundreds weekly. Ukraine is protecting itself as it moves toward the West and democracy.

“Absolutely not”

Sanctions lift extends Ukraine conflict

Shaheen says every time Trump lifts sanctions on Russian gas and oil, he allows Russia to continue funding its illegal war in Ukraine and extends the conflict, costing thousands of lives.

Bipartisan opposition to the deal

Shaheen notes there is already bipartisan opposition to Trump's proposal to allow Russian diesel into the United States, and bipartisan support for Ukraine among lawmakers.

Democrats promise Senate pushback

If Democrats win control of the Senate in November, Shaheen says they will stand up to the president on these issues. Republicans may also resist if they face losses in the election.

“the Democrats certainly will do that if we're in the majority”

Senate majority needed for effectiveness

Shaheen acknowledges that a narrowly divided Senate does not work well as a check on the president. She says voters will decide Senate control in November.

“the voters will decide that in November”