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

Donald Trump announced a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to import Russian diesel into the United States. The agreement, made via Trump’s Truth Social platform, includes 300,000 tonnes of diesel to be released immediately, followed by 500,000 tonnes in November and one million tonnes after that. A further three million tonnes are expected to be delivered within a short period, depending on the condition of Russian refineries, which have been attacked by Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the deal, calling it 'absolutely terrible' and 'not fair and not honest'. He framed the action as funding a war that should conclude, not continue, and claimed Russia is leveraging diesel to stretch the conflict. Zelenskyy also said Russia would repay the diesel with 'further terror'.

Sanctions on Russian diesel shipments have been paused by the US Treasury, effective until 7 April under the agreement. Other Russian assets, such as those in American banks, remain frozen. Putin confirmed Russia will offer oil and petrochemicals to both the United States and international buyers, without disclosing quantities.

On Saturday morning, Ukrainian officials reported a Russian attack in the south-east that killed 12 people, including three children. Moscow claimed its troops were advancing in the east.

The move has created a crisis with NATO allies and raises concerns about US support for Ukraine. Trump said lower fuel prices for Americans was his 'greatest priority'.

What it means

The deal undermines years of Western pressure on Russia to end its war in Ukraine. It risks damaging US alliances and may be seen as a betrayal of Ukraine’s security.

What comes next

The US Treasury will maintain the suspension of sanctions until 7 April. The situation remains under review by US and European officials. No further details on the deal’s terms have been released.