Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised US President Donald Trump’s decision to allow Russian diesel supplies to reach the United States and international markets, describing the move as unfair and a sign of weakness. The criticism came on Friday, October 9, after Trump announced an understanding with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding diesel supplies. Zelensky argued that the arrangement could provide Moscow with additional revenue while the war in Ukraine continues, raising concerns about the impact on efforts to secure peace.

Speaking to reporters, Zelensky questioned the decision to ease restrictions on Russian petroleum exports at a time when Ukraine is seeking stronger support from its Western partners. He described the move as unworthy of countries that have backed Kyiv during the conflict. Zelensky also argued that allowing Russia to earn money from energy exports could weaken international efforts to pressure Moscow into ending its military campaign.

Trump announced the arrangement following a telephone conversation with Putin, stating that Russian diesel supplies could help address energy shortages and ease pressure on fuel prices. The US president has repeatedly identified lower energy costs for American consumers as a priority. The decision comes amid wider disruptions to global energy markets, with the conflict in the Middle East adding pressure to fuel supplies and prices.

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The announcement also complicated diplomatic discussions between Ukrainian and US representatives. Ukrainian negotiators were in the United States for meetings with American officials on possible ways to end the war and establish security guarantees for Ukraine. Zelensky expressed concern that the oil arrangement had been announced while those discussions were taking place, leaving Kyiv questioning Washington’s approach to negotiations with Moscow.

Zelensky maintained that concessions to Russia would not necessarily lead to peace and called for reciprocal steps to reduce hostilities. He argued that any settlement should involve genuine de-escalation rather than measures that provide Moscow with additional resources to continue the conflict. The disagreement highlights continuing differences between Washington and Kyiv over how economic pressure, energy policy and diplomatic engagement should be used to bring the war to an end.

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