Trump announces deal for Russian diesel as Zelensky calls it a gift to Putin

President Donald Trump has announced a deal to import Russian diesel into the United States to address rising fuel costs ahead of the midterm elections. The agreement involves a phased release of diesel, starting with 300,000 tonnes, and includes a temporary suspension of U.S. sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned the deal as a 'gift to Putin' that funds the Russian war effort. While Russia has expressed willingness to supply the market, market analysts have questioned if the quantities provided are sufficient to significantly impact high U.S. pump prices or if Russia has the refining capacity following Ukrainian drone strikes.

President Donald Trump has announced a deal to import Russian diesel into the United States to address rising fuel costs ahead of the midterm elections. The agreement involves a phased release of diesel, starting with 300,000 tonnes, and includes a temporary suspension of U.S. sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned the deal as a 'gift to Putin' that funds the Russian war effort. While Russia has expressed willingness to supply the market, market analysts have questioned if the quantities provided are sufficient to significantly impact high U.S. pump prices or if Russia has the refining capacity following Ukrainian drone strikes.