Tanker carrying Russian diesel halts off US coast, shipping data shows
USO•A tanker carrying 40,000 metric tons of Russian diesel has halted off the US east coast while awaiting orders, and its manager says no destination has been decided. New Jersey’s governor warned port operators that accepting Russian diesel could expose them to civil and criminal penalties.
1. Tanker awaits orders
The Malta-flagged Agioi Fanendes loaded 40,000 metric tons of ultra-low sulphur diesel at Russia’s Baltic port of Primorsk on October 22. The vessel manager, Greece-based Eastmed, said its destination had not changed and it was still awaiting orders.
2. Import deal and warning
President Donald Trump announced a deal last month to import Russian diesel, saying Russia would export 300,000 tons to the United States and global markets, followed by 500,000 tons in November and 1 million tons “immediately thereafter.” New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill warned port officials and terminal operators that accepting Russian diesel could violate federal law and expose businesses and individuals to “harsh” civil and criminal penalties.
3. Other vessels changed course
Other tankers that had signalled the US Atlantic Coast as their destination later altered course. US imports of Russian oil and petroleum products had been banned in 2022.
