By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Seven oil tankers carrying an estimated 288,000 tonnes of Russian diesel are sailing toward the United States, according to tracking by Greenpeace, marking the first phase of a supply deal negotiated between President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin earlier this month.
Tankers tracked by Greenpeace
The environmental group says its monitoring, based on shipping data, is the most complete picture yet of the shipments, which reverse years of sanctions on Russian oil. One tanker, the Taurus, is relatively close to the US, while five others were near the UK and three were in or approaching the English Channel when the map was published.
Political and legal uncertainty
It remains unclear whether the vessels will be allowed to unload. A group of Democratic senators has warned banks and port authorities they could face congressional investigations and legal action if they handle the Russian diesel. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill said she is exploring ways to block any unloading in her state, calling the deal “corrupt and illegal.”
Ukraine drone attack kills civilians
On Thursday, a Russian drone struck a crowded train platform in Dnipro, killing 14 people, while daytime strikes in Chernihiv and Kremenchuk killed five others. Ukraine’s state railway company said a high-speed jet-powered drone hit as a commuter train prepared to depart.
US lawmakers warn against unloading
The White House has reportedly encouraged US firms to take the oil, but buyers appear hesitant given legal risks ahead of next Tuesday’s midterm elections. Trump granted a six-month sanctions waiver to permit the shipments.
Fuel prices and electoral stakes
Trump argued the deal would lower diesel prices, yet the national average price per gallon has risen from $6.28 to $6.33 since the agreement was announced on 9 October, according to the American Automobile Association. Polls suggest Democrats could win control of the House, while the Senate race is too close to call.
Zelenskyy denounces deal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the arrangement, saying the revenue would help the Kremlin fund its war. He described “backroom deals” as giving Putin more chances on the battlefield.
Kremlin restricts export data
A presidential decree in late September limited publication of information on oil exports in an effort to evade international sanctions.
