Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticized US President Donald Trump's decision to allow Russia to supply diesel to the United States and global markets, warning that the move could help Moscow fund its war against Ukraine.
Zelensky called the agreement a weak decision and said it could undermine efforts to end the conflict. His comments came as Ukrainian officials held talks with US representatives to discuss ways to reach a settlement with Russia. Trump defended the move by saying that lowering fuel prices for Americans was his top priority after Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to supply the fuel.
Zelensky questioned the wisdom of allowing Russia to earn money from fuel sales while its military campaign against Ukraine continues. Speaking to reporters on a Friday, he described the agreement as unfair to Ukraine and raised concerns about Washington's approach to its allies.
He also expressed concern that the Ukrainian delegation could be sidelined while Washington and Moscow discuss potential arrangements. The Ukrainian leader suggested that decisions made without properly considering Kyiv's perspective could hinder long-term peace solutions.
In a post on social media, Zelensky warned that permitting Russia to sell petroleum products would provide Moscow with vital revenue to sustain its military operations, characterizing the arrangement as a direct investment in the ongoing war.
Zelensky called for genuine de-escalation and argued that easing economic pressure on Moscow without concrete progress toward peace would only prolong the fighting. The emerging dispute over fuel sales has added another layer of tension between Washington and Kyiv as diplomatic discussions continue.