US President Donald Trump has called for a Department of Justice investigation into oil companies, accusing them of "cheating" consumers by not lowering petrol prices in line with sharply reduced crude oil costs. Despite a recent 20-25% drop in international Brent and WTI crude prices following progress towards an Iran ceasefire, retail petrol prices in the US have remained stubbornly high, barely dropping below four dollars per gallon.

This phenomenon, often referred to as "rockets and feathers," where prices rise quickly but fall slowly, is not unique to the US and is frequently observed in Cyprus as well. Critics argue that oil companies hold stocks of higher-cost fuel to justify maintaining elevated pump prices, but this practice lacks a clear explanation for why cheaper stock is depleted during price hikes while expensive stock remains during price drops.

The price disparity has fueled public outrage and political pressure, leading Trump to publicly criticize energy firms for misleading consumers. Similar criticisms have been dismissed in Cyprus, but given the global nature of the issue, local authorities may need to explore ways to better manage fuel price fluctuations to protect consumers.