The European Commission has strongly opposed Washington’s threat to ban exports of American diesel in order to force Europe to release more strategic fuel reserves. The EU believes that such a move undermines the U.S.’s reputation as a reliable partner.
French President Emmanuel Macron will hold a video conference with G7 leaders on October 2 to discuss the situation in the fuel markets. European Commission spokesperson Anna-Kaisa Itkonen stated: “We completely reject any ban on diesel. A ban would benefit no one and would undermine our trust in the United States.” The EU is ready to cooperate with the International Energy Agency to release fuel reserves.
The day before, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called on European partners to accelerate the fulfillment of their commitments and provide additional fuel supplies. He emphasized that “American farmers, truckers, and businesses should not have to bear the burden of a global diesel shortage.”
According to media reports, the Trump administration wants France and Germany to make more active use of their diesel reserves. The U.S. official noted that “it is in Europe’s interest to work with the United States as we seek ways to increase the supply of petroleum products.”
European Commissioner for Trade Maroš Šefčovič warned that a ban on diesel exports would have “dramatic consequences” for the EU economy. He also pointed out that European countries have yet to release part of the reserves promised in March, despite the fact that 32 IEA members agreed to release a record 400 million barrels of oil.
