White House rules out blanket US diesel export ban as Trump weighs price relief options

The White House has assured Senator Ted Cruz that the Trump administration will not impose a blanket ban on US diesel exports, even as President Donald Trump weighs restrictions to address record-high diesel prices. Cruz relayed this assurance during a private call with refining industry leaders on Friday, though he did not specify which administration officials provided it. The development follows Trump's earlier request to consider an export ban after retail diesel prices hit a record $6.53 a gallon. The administration is exploring alternatives, including expanding tax-exempt red diesel use and adjusting biofuel blending rules. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has said a broad ban is unlikely, though some tweaks to diesel flow may occur.