Zelensky Criticizes Trump's Deal with Putin on Russian Diesel Exports

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticized US President Donald Trump's announcement of an arrangement with Russian President Vladimir Putin that would allow Russia to export diesel fuel to the US and other markets. Zelensky said the move strengthens Moscow at a time when Kyiv and Washington are seeking ways to end the war. The criticism came on Friday, while a Ukrainian delegation was meeting US officials in Florida.

Zelensky's objections

Zelensky said Ukraine's negotiating team in Florida is discussing with the Americans how to end the war or at least secure a ceasefire. At the same time, Trump spoke with Putin and an agreement was reached on Russian diesel exports. The Ukrainian president called it additional funding for the war and said it gives Putin the ability to widen it. He said it is unknown whether the sums are millions or billions, but the money will be used for war against Ukraine.

What the deal includes

According to Trump, Russia will immediately deliver more than 300,000 tonnes of diesel. Another 500,000 tonnes are planned for November, then one million tonnes, and depending on the condition of refineries, a further three million tonnes could follow. Trump called lowering diesel prices for American farmers, livestock producers and freight carriers his top priority.

The US Treasury has issued a temporary license that, despite sanctions, allows Russian diesel to be sold, delivered and imported until 7 April 2027. Last year Russia produced about seven million tonnes of diesel a month, but its production capacity has since fallen by roughly half.

A contradictory backdrop

The move stands out because last month Trump signed a law passed by Congress giving broad powers to impose new sanctions on Russia. Meanwhile, the US is approaching midterm elections, and Trump faces domestic pressure over rising fuel prices.

On 2 October, G7 countries agreed, through the International Energy Agency, to release 100 million barrels of oil and oil product reserves within four months, with a large share of diesel in the first 20 days. European Commission spokeswoman Paula Pinho denied this was done because of US threats.