Trump Announces Russian Diesel Imports; Zelensky Calls Deal a ‘Gift to Putin’
US President Donald Trump’s decision to import Russian diesel has drawn criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who warned that Moscow could repay the move with “further terror.”
US President Donald Trump has announced an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin for Russia to supply diesel to the American and global markets, highlighting Washington’s renewed focus on securing fuel supplies amid rising prices and geopolitical tensions.
In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said Russia would immediately supply more than 300,000 tonnes of diesel, followed by another 500,000 tonnes in November and a further one million tonnes thereafter. He also announced plans for an additional three million tonnes, subject to the condition of Russian diesel refineries.
Trump expressed confidence that the arrangement, alongside the US position in the Strait of Hormuz, would help bring down diesel prices in America and across the world.
The announcement comes against the backdrop of Western sanctions imposed on Russia following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The proposed arrangement has raised questions about Washington’s approach to sanctions as it seeks to address domestic energy concerns.
Zelensky Calls the Move a ‘Gift to Putin’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised the reported arrangement, describing it as a gift to Putin and warning of the consequences of easing pressure on Moscow.
In a social media post, Zelensky said Russia could repay the diesel arrangement with “further terror.” He argued that easing sanctions without a clear and lasting de-escalation agreement would weaken pressure on Russia and potentially allow the war to continue.
Zelenskyy also reiterated that Ukraine was prepared to take reciprocal steps towards de-escalation if Russia stopped attacking Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
His remarks highlight the growing tension between Washington’s efforts to bring down domestic fuel prices and Kyiv’s demand for continued economic pressure on Moscow over the war.
Rising Fuel Prices Drive US Energy Decisions
The reported deal comes amid rising fuel prices in the United States, driven partly by disruptions linked to the conflict involving Iran and wider instability in West Asia.
According to figures cited in the original report, US diesel prices have climbed to around $6.20 per gallon, compared with an average of approximately $3 per gallon last year. Rising fuel costs have emerged as a significant domestic concern ahead of the November midterm elections.
Earlier in the conflict, the Trump administration temporarily permitted the sale of Russian oil already at sea in an effort to ease pressure on fuel prices. That waiver subsequently expired.
Now, with fuel costs continuing to put pressure on American consumers and businesses, the proposed Russian diesel imports signal Washington’s willingness to pursue additional energy supplies to stabilise its domestic market.
The US Office of Foreign Assets Control has reportedly issued a general licence authorising Russian diesel sales to the United States until April 7, 2027. However, questions remain over whether Russia can deliver the announced volumes, particularly as Ukrainian strikes have damaged Russian oil refineries.
Sanctions Versus Energy Security
The development highlights the complex relationship between international sanctions, energy security and domestic economic priorities.
While Western countries have imposed restrictions on Russian energy exports, global market disruptions have increased the importance of securing reliable fuel supplies. The US move underscores how governments must balance geopolitical commitments with the immediate need to control energy costs.
The proposed arrangement also raises questions about the future of Western sanctions and whether economic pressures could reshape relations between Washington and Moscow.
For Ukraine, however, the priority remains preventing Russia from sustaining its military campaign. Zelensky’s warning reflects Kyiv’s concern that easing restrictions could provide Moscow with greater economic room to continue the war.
With fuel prices rising and geopolitical tensions continuing, the proposed diesel deal has placed Washington’s energy priorities and its commitment to pressuring Moscow under renewed scrutiny.
