Zelensky criticizes US deal to import Russian diesel as "gifts to Putin"
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned a U.S. agreement to purchase Russian diesel, calling it a benefit to Vladimir Putin, while the White House said the move aims to lower energy costs.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy denounced a U.S. plan to buy Russian diesel, describing the arrangement as "gifts to Putin" that would not promote peace. The comment came after President Donald Trump announced that Russia would supply more than 300,000 tons of diesel to the United States and global markets immediately, with an additional 500,000 tons slated for November. Trump said the deal would help curb rising energy prices amid broader geopolitical tensions.
The U.S. Treasury Department issued a temporary license to allow Russian diesel to enter international markets, though the White House did not specify payment terms, delivery timelines, or whether the shipments would arrive before the November 3 midterm elections. The announcement follows a recent round of U.S. sanctions targeting Russia's energy sector.
"Gifts to Putin will not bring peace or any benefit to the civilized world," Zelenskyy wrote on X.
"Allowing Russia to sell petroleum products is an investment in a war that must be ended, not prolonged. What is needed is real de-escalation with Russia on a reciprocal basis," he added.
Trump emphasized that lowering fuel costs for American consumers, particularly farmers, ranchers and truckers, was his top priority, without addressing the sanctions or the war in Ukraine. Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev reposted the Treasury notice, stating that cooperation on diesel and energy would benefit the world.