Eerik-Niiles Kross: The true impact of Trump and Putin's diesel deal

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting stated that the UK does not endorse Donald Trump's agreement with Vladimir Putin, which entails the US purchasing diesel from Russia. The deal was negotiated during a period when political figures globally were under pressure to alleviate the cost of living. Mr. Streeting emphasized that the US and its allies should concentrate on increasing pressure on Russia to accelerate the conflict in Ukraine and to ensure Ukraine's independence.

The US-Russia deal aims to reduce fuel costs in America, which have surged due to the US and Israel's conflict with Iran. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky contended that the agreement would enable Russia to accumulate funds for procuring fresh military equipment to sustain the war. In response, Mr. Trump proposed that Ukraine should elect a new leader capable of striking a deal with Russia to conclude the prolonged conflict between the two nations.

Streeting affirmed that it is up to Ukrainians to select their leader, but he highlighted that the nation is "lucky to have someone of his caliber, courage, and integrity" leading the country's war efforts. He reiterated that the responsibility for the war rests "solely with President Putin and his imperialist ambitions." The defence secretary noted that public disagreements between Washington and Kyiv are not unprecedented and that his role is to "bring our friends back together again."

He also underscored the US's support for Ukraine, citing various forms of assistance such as weapons provision, intelligence support, and diplomatic efforts led by Washington. Conservative shadow chancellor Andrew Griffith disagreed with Mr. Trump's call for Zelensky to step down, arguing that even close allies can have differing viewpoints.

He also criticized the diesel deal, stating that it sends "all the wrong messages" and suggested that to foster a peaceful world, nations should properly fund defense and prepare for war. Streeting suggested that the UK must plan its defense spending assuming a Russian attack on NATO by 2030, emphasizing that "strength is the best form of deterrence."

Earlier this year, former Defence Secretary John Healey resigned, accusing the current government of failing to allocate sufficient funds for defense, calling for the UK to spend 3% of national income on defense by 2030, up from an estimated 2.6% this year. Streeting stated that Healey would utilize the upcoming Budget to address a £4.7bn funding gap to finance the Defence Investment Plan.

He also announced that the government will outline a strategy to increase defense spending to 3.5% of national income by 2035 during the next Spending Review. When asked if the government could commit to spending 3% of GDP by 2030, Streeting stated he would always advocate for increased defense spending but added, "We're not going to set out a spending commitment without demonstrating how we'll pay for it."