🇺🇸🛢 FT: Trump’s diesel deal risks falling apart

The Financial Times reported that two of the first three tankers carrying Russian diesel to the United States under the Trump-Putin deal had changed course, putting the entire agreement at risk.

According to the newspaper, Leruo, a Sierra Leone-flagged tanker owned by a Hong Kong company, changed its destination to Brazil on 2 November.

The Russian tanker Talisman, which is subject to EU, US and British sanctions, entered the Mediterranean and is now off the coast of Algeria, broadcasting “for orders”, meaning it has no confirmed buyer or destination port.

The third tanker, Agioi Fanendes, operated by a Greek company, nominally remains bound for the United States but is also broadcasting “for orders”. It had been expected to arrive in New York over the weekend.

According to the FT, the main issue is regulatory and sanctions risk for American buyers. Although the US Treasury issued a licence allowing imports of Russian diesel, Democratic governors in several states warned port authorities about possible fines for unloading these vessels, while congressional investigations began.

Russia’s official response was mixed.

Peskov said that “all the diesel will find buyers”. Meanwhile, Russian Direct Investment Fund chief Dmitriev called the FT report “fake” and said the tankers were continuing on their courses.

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