The US is pressing European countries to prepare to release diesel reserves as President Donald Trump considers restricting US fuel exports, amid record diesel prices in the UK.
Trump said Europe could be asked to release some of its own diesel stocks, while US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has urged European countries to prepare to release supplies immediately.
The comments come as the UK discusses the potential impact of a US export ban with European counterparts, with Energy Minister Martin McCluskey joining a call with European ministers on Thursday ahead of an EU meeting on Friday.
“We have a diverse and resilient supply. We continue to engage with our international partners and the UK fuel industry,” a government spokesperson said.
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The UK imports more than half of its diesel, with 31% of those imports coming from the US. Meanwhile, the US exports between 1.2 million and 1.5 million barrels of diesel a day, making it a significant supplier to international markets.
UK diesel prices reached a record 199.79p per litre, according to the RAC, up from 142.38p. The government said there was no cause for concern over potential shortages, although prices are expected to rise further.
The UK is required under International Energy Agency rules to maintain oil stocks equivalent to 90 days of net imports.
The EU holds nearly 109 million tonnes of emergency crude and fuel stocks, with around a third consisting of diesel and related products.
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