Trump and Putin agreed to supply 300,000 tonnes of Russian diesel to the US and global markets, aiming to lower fuel prices ahead of November elections. The deal marks a shift from previous US pressure on Russia over Ukraine war.
The agreement was announced via a phone call, with Trump claiming it was initially about a suspected plague outbreak in Russia. Russia will supply additional diesel in November and beyond, with a total of 3 million tonnes expected within a short period. The US Treasury issued a temporary license allowing Russian diesel to reach global markets until April 2027.
Ukraine criticized the deal, warning that allowing Russia to sell petroleum is an investment in a war that must be ended. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy called for a strong dialogue with Russia to achieve de-escalation. The deal comes as US and European officials prepare for diplomatic talks aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine.
Ukraine and the US have differing views on the deal, with Zelenskyy warning that easing sanctions without a lasting de-escalation agreement is a sign of weakness. The deal is seen as a potential shift in US policy towards Russia, despite previous sanctions on Russian energy exports.