Trump announces deal for Russian diesel as Zelensky criticises ‘gift to Putin’
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Trump Announces Russian Diesel Deal as Zelensky Condemns Move
Ninoda.com – Trump announces deal for Russian diesel as President Donald Trump seeks to bring down fuel costs in the United States and elsewhere. The agreement with Vladimir Putin would allow Russian diesel to return to the global market, despite continuing concern over Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Trump said Russia would release 300,000 tonnes of diesel immediately, followed by 500,000 tonnes in November and another one million tonnes later. In a Truth Social post, he said the additional supply would lower diesel prices quickly.
“Diesel Prices for Americans and, indeed, the World, will be COMING DOWN, IN RECORD NUMBERS, AND FAST!”
After Trump announces deal for Russian diesel, the US Treasury issued a temporary licence allowing the fuel to enter the market. The move follows legislation recently passed by Congress and signed by Trump that permits new sanctions and tariffs on countries importing Russian oil and gas.
Diesel prices remain a political concern
High fuel prices have become a major issue for the White House ahead of congressional midterm elections. The war with Iran, which began in February, has disrupted energy markets and contributed to a sharp rise in US diesel prices.
The national diesel average stands at $6.28 per gallon after reaching a record $6.53 at the end of September. Although prices have eased slightly, they remain about double their level before the conflict. Diesel costs matter beyond filling stations because the fuel powers freight vehicles, farms, construction equipment and delivery networks.
Brent crude, an important global oil benchmark, is trading above $103 a barrel, compared with about $73 before the Iran war. Trump has also considered suspending the federal gasoline tax, authorised red dye diesel for use on US highways without federal tax consequences, and secured G7 commitments to release 100 million barrels of oil and diesel from stockpiles.
Zelensky warns against easing pressure on Moscow
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky criticised the decision after Trump announces deal for Russian diesel, arguing that renewed Russian petroleum sales could strengthen Moscow while the conflict continues.
“Gifts to Putin will not work for peace.”
Zelensky said Russia would respond to concessions with “further terror” and warned that allowing Russian petroleum products onto international markets would support a war that should end rather than continue.
“Allowing Russia to sell petroleum products is an investment in a war that must be ended, not prolonged.”
Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil refineries have contributed to two severe fuel-shortage waves in Russia. The International Energy Agency estimates that Russian diesel output has fallen by almost 30%. Trump has expressed frustration over the refinery strikes, while Zelensky has said Ukraine is responding to Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
Questions remain over supply and market effects
Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy for Putin, welcomed the arrangement and said Russia-US energy co-operation would benefit the world. However, important details remain unclear, including how the diesel will reach global markets, the commercial terms of the release and whether Russia will receive anything in return.
The White House has been asked whether the US will reimburse Russia for the fuel. The decision could also increase criticism from European partners and US politicians who support Ukraine, particularly as Trump announces deal for Russian diesel during an ongoing war.
FAQ for US drivers and businesses
Will the Russian diesel deal immediately lower prices? Trump says the additional supply will reduce prices quickly, but the final impact will depend on how and when the fuel reaches the market.
Why do diesel prices affect more than drivers? Diesel is widely used by trucks, farms, construction machinery and delivery networks, so higher costs can raise transport and consumer prices.
What is red dye diesel? It is fuel normally intended for off-road uses, including agriculture and construction. Trump has authorised its use on US highways without federal tax consequences.
