Prominent U.S. Democrats have asked six major banks and several American port authorities to preserve documents relating to possible imports of Russian diesel under an agreement between Donald Trump's administration and Moscow. Axios, which reviewed one of the letters, broke the news on October 26.
The lawmakers asked that records be retained concerning planned or completed purchases, transportation, unloading, storage, financing and distribution of Russian diesel. Those behind the initiative include Representative Gregory Meeks, who could become chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee if Democrats gain control of the chamber.
The politicians argue that imports of Russian fuel could conflict with a 2022 law restricting deliveries of Russian energy products to the United States. The Trump administration lifted some sanctions restrictions to facilitate the agreement, while the Treasury Department maintains that it is acting within the law.
A request to preserve documents does not mean Congress has opened a formal investigation or established a legal violation. Any investigation will depend on lawmakers' subsequent actions, including after the U.S. midterm elections.
Trump says the agreement is intended to increase global fuel supplies and ease pressure on prices. Critics warn that export revenue could help finance Russia's war against Ukraine.