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Trump Reportedly Considered 90-Day Ban on US Diesel Exports

At a glance

  • Donald Trump reportedly discussed a 90-day halt on US diesel exports.
  • The European Commission stated that such a ban could harm both the EU and US.
  • In August 2026, the US supplied about half of the EU’s diesel imports.

Reports indicate that President Donald Trump discussed the possibility of imposing a temporary ban on US diesel exports, with the aim of reducing domestic fuel prices before the November midterm elections.

The European Commission responded to the reported proposal by stating that such a measure could have negative effects on both the European Union and the United States. The Commission described current energy cooperation between the two regions as strong and mutually beneficial.

According to the European Commission, the United States accounted for approximately 50 percent of the European Union’s diesel imports in August 2026. The Commission also noted that, at present, there is no concrete diesel shortage within the EU.

The European Commission said that its Oil Coordination Group would soon reassess supply conditions to monitor the situation. Officials reiterated that any disruption to established energy trade could impact both sides.

What the numbers show

  • President Trump reportedly floated a 90-day ban on US diesel exports in late September 2026.
  • In August 2026, the US supplied around 50% of the EU’s diesel imports.
  • The European Commission confirmed there is currently no diesel shortage in the EU.

The European Commission emphasized that stable energy relations with the United States have benefited both parties. The Commission described the partnership as both strong and stable, highlighting the importance of ongoing cooperation.

Officials from the European Commission stated that any interruption in diesel exports from the US could have repercussions for both the EU and US economies. The Commission said it would continue to monitor developments and reassess the supply situation as needed.

Industry reaction

The European Commission expressed concern about the potential US diesel export ban, stating that it could negatively affect both the EU and the US.

The Commission confirmed that there is currently no diesel shortage in the EU and said that the Oil Coordination Group would review supply conditions in the near future.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.