Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised concerns over US President Donald Trump’s plan to buy diesel from Russia, warning that the agreement could help Moscow finance its war against Ukraine.
Trump announced that Russia would supply 300,000 tonnes of diesel immediately, followed by 500,000 tonnes in November and another one million tonnes later. He also said that additional supplies could reach three million tonnes within a short period, depending on the condition of Russian refineries.
As part of the agreement, the US Treasury reportedly issued a temporary licence allowing Russian diesel exports to enter the market, with the reported suspension of sanctions running until April 7. Other Russian assets held in US banks remain frozen.
Zelensky criticised the move, saying that easing restrictions on Russian energy exports could give Moscow more money while its attacks on Ukraine continue. He called on Washington to maintain strong support for Ukraine and take a firm approach in its dealings with Russia.
The Ukrainian president also pointed to overnight Russian attacks on Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia, arguing that Moscow’s actions showed little commitment to peace. He said Ukraine’s strikes on Russian oil refineries were a response to Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities.
The agreement has also raised concerns among European leaders. European Union foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas warned that relaxing sanctions could increase Russia’s income and help it continue the war. She said European foreign ministers planned to consider further sanctions against Moscow, according to a BBC report.
The UK government reaffirmed its support for Ukraine and its commitment to working with international partners to promote peace, stability and a lasting resolution to the conflict.
Trump has defended the deal as part of his efforts to reduce rising fuel costs in the United States ahead of the midterm elections. Fuel prices have increased amid disruptions to global energy markets linked to the war involving Iran, which began in February.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the average price of diesel in the US stood at $6.28 per gallon, down from a record $6.53 at the end of September.
Zelensky maintained that Ukraine’s attacks on Russian refineries were linked to Moscow’s repeated strikes on its energy infrastructure. He said Ukraine would stop targeting Russian oil refineries if Russia stopped attacking Ukrainian energy facilities.
