US President Donald Trump has asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to stop targeting Russian oil refineries that produce diesel, arguing that the attacks are contributing to a global shortage of the fuel.
Speaking to reporters in Ireland, Trump said Ukraine could target other Russian facilities but should avoid sites involved in diesel production. He maintained that the recent rise in diesel prices was linked to the Russia-Ukraine war rather than the conflict involving Iran.
Why Is Trump Blaming Ukraine For Diesel Prices?
Trump said Ukrainian drone and missile strikes on Russian refineries were reducing diesel supplies at a time when fuel markets are already under pressure. His comments come amid a sharp rise in global diesel prices and concerns over disruptions to energy supplies. Trump has repeatedly argued that the Middle East conflict is not responsible for the current fuel shortage, instead pointing to Ukraine’s attacks on Russia’s energy infrastructure.
Ukraine’s Attacks On Russian Energy Infrastructure
Ukraine has increasingly targeted facilities inside Russia as part of its broader strategy to damage Moscow’s ability to finance and sustain the war. Russian oil refineries and other energy infrastructure have become important targets, with Kyiv seeking to reduce Russia’s fuel production and put additional economic pressure on the Kremlin.
However, a senior European official involved in peace efforts criticised Washington’s position, arguing that Russian oil and diesel supplies are not central to US consumption. The official also suggested that the Trump administration was looking for someone to blame for rising energy costs ahead of the US midterm elections.
US Officials Raise Concerns Over Refinery Strikes
Trump is not the only senior US official to link Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries with higher diesel prices. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright recently said damage to Russian refining capacity had created difficulties in the diesel market. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also attributed part of the energy price shock to Ukraine’s attacks on Russia’s energy infrastructure.
The comments indicate growing concern in Washington over the impact of the strikes on global fuel markets.
Europe Calls For Reciprocal Halt To Attacks
A European official said that if Washington wants Ukraine to stop targeting Russian refineries, it should also press Moscow to halt attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The official argued that any ceasefire would need to apply to both sides rather than requiring only Kyiv to stop its attacks.
Russia, meanwhile, has shown no indication that it plans to suspend military operations while negotiations continue. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow would continue its military campaign during the negotiation process. The Kremlin has expressed willingness to hold talks, but Russia has maintained that its military operations will continue alongside any diplomatic efforts.
