US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to supply 300,000 tons of Russian diesel to the US and global markets, marking a shift in US policy toward Russia. The deal includes additional shipments of 500,000 tons in November and 1 million tons thereafter, with further deliveries based on refinery conditions.
The US Treasury Department issued a temporary license allowing Russian diesel importation until April 2027. Trump's announcement follows a sanctions law aimed at clamping down on Russia's energy sector, though it now allows diesel sales. Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev praised the cooperation, while Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned the deal as a 'gift' to Putin.
Ukraine warns the deal could prolong the war, with Zelenskyy calling for a 'strong' diplomatic conversation with Russia. Analysts suggest the deal is unlikely to significantly lower diesel prices, as Russia's refinery damage limits exports. The US faces pressure to address rising fuel costs ahead of the November midterm elections.