President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he supports a ban on diesel fuel exports to help curb soaring energy costs for American consumers and businesses.
Fuel Costs Surge
Diesel prices in the United States reached record highs, with the national average hitting $6.53 per gallon on Tuesday. That figure represents an increase of more than 75 percent compared to a year ago. Prices in Europe have also climbed to unprecedented levels.
The spike stems from disruptions in global supply chains caused by ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, which have reduced exports from major producers including Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Administration Weighs Restrictions
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said officials are currently examining the feasibility of a full or partial export ban. He noted that the administration is assessing whether such a measure would work given overall refining capacity.
“We’re examining whether it’s feasible in terms of the overall refining capacity and whether a full or partial ban would work,” Bessent said.
President Trump reiterated his position during public remarks. “I’ve said let’s not send out the diesel. We make a lot of diesel … I’ve called for it,” he stated.
Congressional and Industry Reactions
Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, joined the call for an export ban, arguing that restricting shipments would alleviate high costs for Americans relying on diesel for transportation and agriculture.
However, industry leaders warned against the move. The American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers trade group stated that an export ban could backfire. They argued it would force refiners to reduce production of both diesel and gasoline, potentially worsening domestic shortages rather than resolving them.
Diplomatic Pressure on Ukraine
The President also addressed the root causes of the supply disruption in discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump urged Zelenskyy to pause strikes on Russian oil refineries to prevent further price increases in global markets. The two leaders discussed Ukrainian attacks on Russian refining sites and potential solutions to end the war in Ukraine.