Russian strikes kill 11 in Ukraine after Trump gets diesel deal with Moscow

President Donald Trump secured Russia's agreement to release a significant amount of diesel fuel into the US and global markets, aiming to lower energy costs ahead of midterm elections. This move comes as part of the easing of sanctions imposed on Russia due to its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Moscow has been subjected to sanctions by the US and partners since the invasion.

The release of diesel is expected to begin immediately, with Russia supplying over 300,000 tons to the American and global markets. The deliveries are set to increase to 500,000 tons in November and further larger releases are promised. President Trump emphasized that lowering fuel prices for Americans, especially farmers, ranchers, and truckers, is his greatest priority.

Critics, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, have condemned Trump's move as unworthy and weak. Zelensky stated that it is not honest and weak decision. The US Treasury issued a temporary license to allow Russian diesel to flow to global markets through April 2027.

The deal comes weeks before key US elections, where Trump's Republican Party risks losing its grip on Congress. Voters are frustrated over the mounting cost of living, with gasoline and diesel prices surging since late February. Trump attributes the price increases to Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries, although the US-Israeli war with Iran has been the main disruptor of global energy supplies.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian and US negotiators held constructive discussions in Miami to explore ways to de-escalate and conclude the Russia-Ukraine conflict before winter. US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law, were among the participants. The talks covered security guarantees, long-term arrangements for Ukraine's and Europe's security, and support for Ukraine's post-war reconstruction.