By GB News (World News) | Created at 2026-10-02 13:30:34 | Updated at 2026-10-03 21:15:16
1 day ago
The European Union has rejected calls to place a ban on the export of diesel, despite reported threats from US President Donald Trump.
A spokesperson for the European Commission has rejected any proposed export ban on diesel amid the soaring cost of oil and fuel.
Anna-Kaisa Itkonen said: "A ban would not be beneficial to anyone. It would undermine our trust in the United States as a reliable partner."
It follows talks between the UK and European allies about the possibility of releasing diesel stocks, which took place yesterday (October 1).
Reuters stated that the Trump administration had threatened a potential US diesel export ban if they failed to drawn down diesel stocks to ease fuel prices.
A Government spokesperson has confirmed to GB News that the UK has a "diverse and resilient supply" of diesel.
It added that it would continue to engage with international partners and the UK fuel industry as the US-Iran war continues.
The UK imports around 55 per cent of road diesel, which is a dramatic increase compared to 2003 when just 14 per cent was imported.
The EU has rejected any proposals to ban the export of diesel
GETTY
Around 31 per cent of diesel was imported from the United States last year, alongside 30 per cent of crude oil, data from Fuels Industry UK found.
Sky News has reported that Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband will represent the UK at an emergency G7 meeting about diesel prices this afternoon.
The Energy Secretary maintains contact with the US Energy Secretary Chris Wright on diesel stockpiles and other energy security matters.
It comes as drivers up and down the country adapt to a new all-time record high price for diesel, as RAC Fuel Watch analysis shows that costs have risen to £2 per litre.
The cost of diesel has risen dramatically since the start of the US-Iran war, when drivers were paying an average of just 142.38p per litre.
Motorists are now paying 57.6p per litre extra every time they fill up - a concerning rise of 40.5 per cent compared to February 28.
The situation in the Middle East has had knock-on effects around the world, even impacting nations with strong supplies.
Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced this morning that there is a shortage of gasoline.
Russian state media TASS reported that Mr Novak emphasised that diesel was being produced in "sufficient quantities", alongside kerosene.
He said: "Regarding gasoline, we are currently seeing a slight shortage on the market. We are taking all necessary measures to cover this shortage to prevent any shortages."
It comes after President Vladimir Putin said Moscow would not export its diesel abroad until sanctions against Russia were removed.
