Democrats Demand Enforcement of Russian Diesel Sanctions

Representatives Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) and Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) are demanding enforcement of the federal sanctions law prohibiting the import and sale of Russian diesel in the United States and that any attempted importations be prosecuted.

The two lawmakers, both members of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, are calling on Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Rodney Scott to enforce the law and refer any attempted importations for prosecution. This comes after lawmakers from both ends of the aisle have been urging President Donald Trump to reverse his decision to allow Russian diesel imports.

Rep. Doggett said a “Putin diesel tanker” will reach an American port in early November, warning businesses against violating federal law.

“A Putin diesel tanker is en route to reach an American port in early November.

“Any business considering complicity in violating federal law should consider the consequences,” Rep. Doggett said.

Rep. Doggett said any business that imports, purchases or transports the Russian diesel would be engaging in “unlawful conduct,” per the Ending Importation of Russian Oil Act. This bill bans the importation of Russian energy products, including diesel, and allows the ban to be lifted only under specific conditions involving Russia ending its war against Ukraine.

“They can expect prompt congressional investigation and eventual prosecution,” Rep. Doggett said.

Rep. Kaptur echoes a similar sentiment, adding that this law is clear. She said she expected to see CBP turn the expected Russian tankers away at the border.

“Any entity that facilitates such importation or purchases will be directly funding Dictator Vladimir Putin's barbaric war against Ukraine in violation of Federal law,” she said. “Such actions warrant serious consequences.”

Rep. Doggett added, “Trump’s illegal sanctions waiver may protect his pal Putin but will not protect Americans who engage in criminal conduct.”