(Sen. Chuck Grassley - KIWA Staff Photo)Iowa (RI) — Sen. Chuck Grassley is among the Republicans questioning President Donald Trump’s agreement to purchase Russian diesel fuel despite recently signing legislation that expanded sanctions on Russia.
Critics of the proposal argue it would do little to lower diesel prices while benefitting Russia, which has supported Iran during its conflict with the United States.
Grassley says the deal appears inconsistent with the sanctions legislation Congress approved earlier this year.
Grassley noted that the sanctions package was named in honor of former South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, who died in July.
Under the agreement, Trump says the United States will immediately purchase 300,000 tons of diesel fuel from Russia, with larger purchases planned in the coming months.
According to AAA, diesel fuel is averaging $6.07 per gallon in Iowa, down from the statewide record of $6.31 per gallon set in late September. A year ago, diesel averaged less than $3.50 per gallon across the state.
