Zelenskyy warns US diesel deal could fund Putin's Ukraine war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed serious concerns over a reported diesel trade deal between the United States and Russia, arguing that the agreement could provide Moscow with crucial funding for its military operations in Ukraine.

Zelenskyy warned that such commercial arrangements risk strengthening Russia's financial position at a critical juncture in the conflict, as Ukrainian forces continue to face intensive Russian missile and artillery attacks. The Ukrainian leader has called on the international community to reconsider policies that could indirectly benefit Moscow's war effort.

Amid the escalating situation, Zelenskyy has appealed to European nations to substantially increase their military and financial assistance to Ukraine. He emphasized that sustained international support is essential for Ukraine to maintain its defensive capabilities against Russian aggression.

The dispute highlights ongoing debates within the Western alliance regarding trade policies and their potential geopolitical implications during the conflict. Officials in Kyiv contend that economic measures affecting Russia's revenue streams should align with broader efforts to constrain Moscow's military capacity.