**Title: EU Raises Concerns Over Potential US Diesel Export Ban**
Brussels, Belgium – Officials in the European Union have expressed alarm over the possibility of a U.S. ban on diesel exports, which they fear could exacerbate the already strained energy market in Europe. The warning comes as the EU grapples with reduced Russian energy supplies due to sanctions and ongoing disruptions in the Middle East.
European Commission spokesman Olof Gill addressed the situation on Thursday, stating that reports of a potential 90-day halt on diesel exports from the U.S. have prompted significant concern within the EU. Gill emphasized that any disruption in diesel supply could have negative repercussions for both the U.S. and European markets.
The U.S. has emerged as a crucial supplier of diesel to Europe, providing approximately one-third of the continent's diesel imports this year. Notably, this share increased to around 50% in August, according to recent government data. As a result, diesel prices have surged, reaching record highs at fuel stations in Germany and the Netherlands.
Commission spokeswoman Anna-Kaisa Itkonen reiterated the EU's commitment to closely monitoring energy markets and supply security. She highlighted the importance of the U.S. as a major supplier of both diesel and liquefied natural gas, particularly as part of the EU's diversification strategy initiated in 2022.
The potential ban was notably supported by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested on Tuesday that the U.S. should refrain from exporting diesel as domestic prices soared to a record $6.52 per gallon ($1.72 per liter). Trump made these comments during a press briefing before a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, where he also urged Zelensky to cease Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries, claiming such actions were contributing to a global diesel shortage.
The issue of energy supply was further discussed during recent talks between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in New York. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Lavrov accused Ukrainian attacks on energy infrastructure of intentionally destabilizing global energy markets.
In response to the energy crisis, Russia has also implemented restrictions on its fuel exports to stabilize its domestic market. These measures are set to remain in place until January, although certain producers have been allowed to export diesel, marine fuel, and gasoline since September.
The ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran has also contributed to supply constraints, with significant disruptions reported in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. This vital route typically accounts for about 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The International Energy Agency reported that Gulf diesel and gasoline exports fell to just over a quarter of pre-war levels in August.
Since the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, the EU has significantly reduced its reliance on Russian energy. The bloc's imports of Russian gas have plummeted from 45% to an estimated 12% by 2025, while oil imports from Russia have decreased from 27% to approximately 2%.
Moscow has attributed the energy crisis in Europe to the EU's decision to cut Russian energy imports. Kremlin envoy Kirill Dmitriev recently described the situation as "the worst energy crisis in history," labeling it a "self-made" predicament for Europe.
As the EU continues to navigate these complex energy challenges, officials remain vigilant in monitoring potential disruptions to diesel supplies, particularly in light of the evolving geopolitical landscape and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.