Tillis says Trump's Russian diesel deal may be illegal

Tillis, an influential Republican from North Carolina, stated, “I do believe there’s a legitimate case for saying the president’s not following the law.” He warned that the president’s deal may violate a 2022 law passed by Congress that banned Russian oil imports unless specific conditions were met, including a full Russian withdrawal from Ukraine.

Diesel prices are near record highs, potentially impacting Republican candidates in upcoming congressional elections. Analysts have expressed skepticism that the agreement with Moscow would lead to sustained lower fuel prices. However, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Fox News on Sunday that the Trump administration would proceed with the deal using existing legal authority, asserting it would benefit Americans and lower prices. Bessent stated that any claims from Congress prohibiting the action are incorrect.