The discharge port has not been set, so the cargo's fate is unresolved. Whether the Agioi Fanendes unloads, diverts, or keeps waiting remains open. As of Nov. 10, there had been no confirmed deliveries of Russian diesel to US ports under the new agreement, and analysts doubt any US buyers have been confirmed. The Russian tanker Talisman and the Hong Kong-owned Leruo have both dropped US Atlantic Coast destinations, according to the Financial Times. Russia says it has loaded four tankers with diesel for the United States.
The deal's legal footing is weak. President Trump announced the arrangement last month to lower pump prices before the midterms, calling for 300,000 tons to the United States and global markets, then 500,000 tons in November and 1 million "immediately thereafter." The 2022 Ending Importation of Russian Oil Act bans imports of Chapter 27 products, which include diesel. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat, warned port officials and terminal operators this month that accepting Russian diesel would break federal law and could expose businesses and individuals using New Jersey ports to "harsh" civil and criminal penalties. The administration has temporarily authorized certain transactions involving Russian diesel, a move that has drawn criticism from lawmakers. Counsel advising terminal operators, shippers, or traders should review exposure under the Act and the scope of the temporary authorization now, before any cargo is discharged.