Trump Considers US Diesel Export Ban Amid Record Fuel Prices

​WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed support for a potential ban on domestic diesel exports as fuel prices skyrocket to unprecedented levels. The surge at the pump, driven heavily by ongoing geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, poses a major political threat to the administration heading into the November congressional midterms.

​Speaking to reporters in New York alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump indicated he was fully onboard with keeping refined fuel inside the country.

​“I’ve called for that too. I’ve said let’s not send out the diesel,” Trump stated. Highlighting the volume of domestic production, he added that restricting international shipments could simultaneously offer slight relief to regular automobile gasoline prices.

​The proposal has gained traction among Republican lawmakers facing tough re-election battles in agricultural and industrial heartlands, where high diesel costs are severely squeezing farmers, logistics operators, and consumers. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, also present at the high-level discussions, noted that the administration is actively evaluating the feasibility of a full or partial export ban. Officials are weighing overall refining capacities to determine whether such restrictions can effectively lower domestic costs without triggering long-term supply chain disruptions.

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​However, energy sector analysts and major trade groups have cautioned against the move. Industry representatives warn that cutting off foreign buyers could backfire by discouraging local refiners from maintaining high production levels, ultimately reducing gasoline output and driving consumer costs even higher over time.

​Trump Requests Zelenskyy Halt Attacks on Russian Diesel Facilities

​This video provides context on how Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure have factored into recent global diesel shortages.