Overview
- President Trump publicly demanded that Ukraine stop striking Russian refinery and diesel infrastructure during a visit to Ireland on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026.
- Trump argued the Russia–Ukraine fighting is the main cause of rising diesel prices and singled out Ukrainian strikes as responsible for shortages.
- Energy agencies and reporters dispute that claim and point to Iran-related fighting, Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, and a damaged Saudi east–west pipeline as major drivers of the global diesel shock.
- U.S. retail diesel has climbed above six dollars per gallon, according to AAA data cited by multiple outlets, increasing political pressure at home.
- The IEA says diesel is especially affected where Gulf and Russian refineries have been damaged, and analysts warn continued infrastructure strikes and Middle East disruptions could keep supplies tight and prices high.