US President Donald Trump has announced he has demanded that oil companies reduce petrol prices immediately, threatening unspecified consequences if they refuse to comply. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump warned of ‘big problems’ facing energy firms that do not act on his request, indicating he believes current fuel prices are unsustainably high.
The US President has called for petrol prices to be reduced to around $2.50 per gallon, a target significantly below current market rates in most American states. His intervention represents an attempt to use presidential pressure to influence the oil industry’s pricing strategy, though presidents have limited direct authority to compel private companies to lower costs.
Trump also singled out California for criticism, demanding that the state abandon what he describes as excessive fuel taxes. The state has implemented additional environmental regulations on fuel that contribute to higher prices at the pump compared to other US states. His call for California to remove these levies suggests his price-reduction strategy involves both pressure on oil companies and criticism of state-level taxation and environmental policies.
The announcement comes amid ongoing concerns about energy costs and their impact on American consumers and the broader economy. Trump’s direct challenge to the oil industry reflects his approach of using public statements and threats of future action to influence corporate behaviour, a tactic he frequently employed during his first presidency.
Source: Walla News — Original article in Hebrew.
© 2026 News In Israel - Israeli News In English. All Rights Reserved.