Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky labeled U.S. President Donald Trump as "weak" following a deal with the Kremlin that allows for the export of Russian diesel.
In his critique, Zelensky accused Washington of using Ukrainian negotiators in Miami as a distraction while secretly finalizing the energy agreement.
In a voice message to journalists on Friday, Zelensky revealed that while U.S. and Ukrainian delegations were discussing a potential diplomatic solution to the war in Florida, Trump was on the phone with Vladimir Putin, agreeing to remove restrictions on Russian diesel exports.
"This means millions, even billions. Ultimately, it fuels the war against the people, against Ukraine, against all of us," the Ukrainian leader stated.
"I believe our team is being used merely as a smokescreen. This is dishonest; partners shouldn't act like this. In my view, it's a weak decision—unfortunately, a weak decision by strong partners," remarked Zelensky.
Controversial Diesel Supply Agreement
The deal announced by Trump involves supplying over 4.8 million tons of Russian diesel to both the U.S. and international markets in various phases. The Treasury Department formalized this arrangement under OFAC's General License 135, permitting the purchase and importation of the fuel until April 7, 2027.
Russia's response was swift. On Saturday, Zelensky reported via his official social media that Russia had launched five guided aerial bombs on residential areas in Zaporizhzhia, resulting in at least 12 deaths, including three children, and injuring 14 others, two critically. That same night, 13 Ukrainian regions suffered attacks damaging structures, infrastructure, and railways.
"Today, Russia showed gratitude for the lifting of diesel export sanctions by dropping five bombs on residential buildings in Zaporizhzhia," Zelensky wrote on social media platform X, directly linking the bombing to Trump's decision.
The Ukrainian president was clear about the ongoing attacks on Russian energy infrastructure: "In Russia, any easing of pressure is seen as a signal that they can continue fighting, that they can keep bombing cities. Different messages are needed. Right now, our long-range capabilities ensure that Russia feels its losses. We will respond to Russian attacks."
Bipartisan Criticism and Political Implications
The oil deal was struck just 21 days after Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Russia and Iran Sanctions Act, which passed with strong bipartisan support—86 votes in favor and 11 against in the Senate—aimed at cutting off revenue funding Russia's war efforts.
Criticism came from both political parties. Republican Representative Don Bacon warned that Putin hopes Washington will pressure Ukraine to halt its attacks on Russian refineries, calling the deal a "reward for a dictator." Democratic Senators such as Chuck Schumer, Jeanne Shaheen, and Elizabeth Warren deemed it a betrayal to Ukraine and European allies.
The energy backdrop Trump cites as justification is real: diesel prices in the U.S. exceeded $6.28 per gallon in September, driven partly by Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries—Kyiv claims to have disabled 51% of Russia's refining capacity—and the energy crisis linked to the conflict with Iran.
The decision also comes amid the midterm election campaign, which several analysts suggest as an additional political motivation.
According to Ukrainian media outlet Hromadske, the peace talks in Miami ended prematurely, partly due to the fallout from the energy deal announcement.
Understanding the Impact of the Russian Oil Deal
Why did Zelensky call Trump's decision "weak"?
Zelensky criticized Trump's decision as "weak" because he believes it undermines Ukraine's position and benefits Russia, thus enabling the ongoing war against Ukraine.
What are the implications of the diesel supply agreement?
The agreement allows for the export of over 4.8 million tons of Russian diesel, raising concerns about funding Russia's war efforts and creating political backlash in the U.S. during a sensitive election period.
How did Russia respond to the lifting of sanctions?
Russia reportedly responded by launching guided aerial bombs in residential areas of Zaporizhzhia, causing civilian casualties and damage, which Zelensky linked to the sanction relief.