EU sharply criticises Trump–Putin deal on Russian diesel supplies

The European Union on Saturday sharply criticised an agreement between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on supplies of Russian diesel fuel. The EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, warned that Washington's planned easing of sanctions would give Moscow additional revenue to fund its war against Ukraine.

What Trump announced

Following a Friday phone call with Putin, Trump said on his social media platform Truth Social that Russia would immediately deliver more than 300,000 tonnes of diesel to American and global markets. According to him, Moscow plans to supply another 500,000 tonnes in November and 100,000 tonnes right after that. Washington intends to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian diesel so deliveries can continue. The Kremlin confirmed the agreement.

The EU's position

Kallas said that suspending sanctions would give Russia "more revenue to wage war". "This is not the right time to reduce pressure on Russia, and Europe will not do it," she stressed.

She noted that Russian strikes over two days killed more than 80 Ukrainian civilians. She also said Russia has stepped up hybrid attacks against Europe, targeting both EU member states and NATO allies.

EU foreign ministers plan on Monday to impose sanctions on more individuals and organisations supporting Russia's war effort than in any previous round since the war began.

Domestic pressure in the US

Trump is facing growing domestic political pressure over rising fuel prices. US midterm elections are scheduled for next month.