Two Russian tankers change course after Trump's US diesel announcement
Two Russian oil tankers have suddenly changed course, ditching plans to head to the US and now one is reportedly sailing toward Brazil and the other has entered the Mediterranean Sea.
This shakeup follows President Trump's announcement about a deal with Putin to send Russian diesel to the US meant to help with rising fuel prices, but ongoing US sanctions on Russian energy are making things complicated.
Dmitriev denies reroute, US officials warn
While Kirill Dmitriev, a Russian presidential envoy and negotiator, called reports of these route changes "Fake. Tankers destined for the US continue on course," and insisted the ships are still headed for the US
US officials aren't buying it. New Jersey's governor warned ports not to accept these shipments or face penalties, and Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal warned shipping companies against violating US sanctions on Russian fuel imports.
The whole situation shows how tricky it is for countries to balance energy needs with tough political rules.