Trump officials privately urge US firms to take Russian diesel as buyers hold back, The Washington Sun reports

Trump administration officials are privately pressing US companies to accept Russian diesel now crossing the Atlantic, The Washington Sun reported on 29 October, citing industry groups. According to the paper, at least three tankers left for the US in mid-October, and the Malta-flagged Agioi Fanendes, first listed for the Port of New York and New Jersey, now shows its destination as "for orders". New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill is weighing ways to stop the ship docking in her state, and Rapidan Energy Group said the cargoes could end up in Brazil. The Daily Beast quoted analysts as saying US firms had been offered cargoes for weeks without taking any. Treasury said OFAC's general licence was consistent with its past practice.

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