US Politicians Criticise Trump's Deal with Putin on Russian Diesel

Criticism is growing in Washington over an agreement between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on supplies of Russian diesel fuel. According to the Ukrainian outlet Dialog.ua, critics believe that additional revenue from fuel exports will help the Kremlin finance its military operations in Ukraine. Opposition has come from both Trump's Republican allies and Democrats.

Criticism from former officials

Former US Vice President Mike Pence said America should not throw a lifeline to Putin's war machine. He urged a firm stand against Russian aggression, as during Trump's first term, and a return to strong sanctions pressure. Pence also noted that Ukraine's army has halted the advance of Russian troops and substantially changed the nature of modern warfare through the use of drones. In his view, Putin does not want peace; he wants Ukraine.

Keith Kellogg, a former US special envoy, backed Ukraine's strikes on legitimate military targets inside Russia. He remarked that this is a war and the strikes are being carried out properly.

Democratic and British reaction

Democratic Senator Adam Schiff pointed to the rapid shift in US policy: within just three weeks, the country went from imposing sanctions on Russian oil to buying it. He said that, instead of ending what he called a disastrous war in Iran, Trump is now funding Russia's war against Ukraine.

Bill in Congress

A bill banning Russian oil is being prepared in the US Congress. It is planned to be called the Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Act. Its backers say they are confident it will pass by a convincing majority.

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson also joined the criticism. He expressed doubt that a deal with Moscow could significantly lower fuel prices and stressed the need to achieve peace while preserving a free and independent Ukraine.