1. United States
2. Colo.
3. Letter

The proposal to purchase diesel fuel from Russia under President Trump should alarm every American who believes in democracy, international law, and accountability for acts of aggression. After imposing sanctions to punish Russia for its illegal invasion of Ukraine, the United States is now considering putting money back into the hands of Vladimir Putin’s government. Is this really the message America wants to send? Is this what American leadership is supposed to look like? Sanctions are not disposable inconveniences to be abandoned when politically expedient. Purchasing Russian fuel undermines the very economic pressure intended to hold Moscow accountable and risks helping finance its continued war against Ukraine. The national security implications extend further. Reports of Russian intelligence assistance to Iran raise serious concerns about Moscow’s role in supporting a government threatening American forces. Why should the United States provide additional revenue to Russia without fully investigating the implications of its cooperation with Iran? Even if no direct financial link to Iranian attacks is established, strengthening a government that may be aiding another adversary is a risk that cannot be ignored. This is not simply a question of fuel prices. It is a question of whether American foreign policy stands for anything beyond short-term commercial convenience. The administration must demonstrate that any economic benefits justify the legal, diplomatic, and national security risks. I urge you to demand congressional scrutiny of this arrangement, establish its legal basis, and oppose any action that weakens sanctions against Russia without compelling justification. The United States cannot credibly defend international law while rewarding a government waging an illegal war. Nor should it risk strengthening a government whose actions may threaten American lives. **Do not undermine sanctions against Russia. Do not reward aggression against Ukraine. Do not sacrifice American security for a questionable deal.**