A bill aimed at opposing the Trump administration's agreement to purchase Russian diesel fuel was introduced in the US House of Representatives on October 16. The legislation was presented by Democrat Gregory Meeks, the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
The bill, titled the Prohibit Corrupt Russia Oil Deals Act, would revoke general licenses issued by the US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control involving Russia's energy sector and prohibit new licenses, according to a statement from the committee.
It would also prohibit the US International Development Finance Corporation from investing in Russia's energy industry and require the administration to impose sanctions on the sector.
Meeks criticized Trump's agreement with Vladimir Putin, arguing that it would provide Russia with additional revenue while the war against Ukraine continues.
The congressman said Washington should increase economic pressure on Moscow rather than ease restrictions affecting Russian energy exports.
Other members of the House backed the bill, including Democrat William Keating and Republican Don Bacon.
The initiative followed the Trump administration's decision to authorize transactions involving Russian diesel fuel. The move drew criticism from lawmakers who argue that easing sanctions would allow Russia to generate additional revenue.
The bill has not been passed. It must complete the legislative process before its provisions can take effect.