Zelensky Criticises Trump’s Diesel Deal with Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned a reported agreement between the United States and Russia allowing Moscow to supply diesel to America, labelling it “a gift” that would ultimately lead to “terror”.
Zelensky expressed his concerns on social media shortly after President Donald Trump announced that Russia would export over 300,000 tonnes of diesel following a “highly successful” conversation between the two leaders.
“Gifts to Putin will not bring peace or any benefit to the civilised world,” Zelensky wrote, adding that allowing Russia to supply oil will only prolong the conflict. He insisted on the need for genuine de-escalation with reciprocal actions.
In another context, Trump had previously instructed Ukraine to cease attacks on Russian diesel infrastructure, claiming these strikes were exacerbating a global fuel shortage, which has been further affected by the US conflict with Iran.
This diesel deal emerges even as the US seeks an ‘energy ceasefire’, where both nations would halt assaults on critical energy assets—an arrangement Zelensky had indicated he might accept, given the looming winter challenges.
