Russian diesel cargo heads for US after Trump-Putin deal

Russian diesel fuel is slated to arrive in the United States following a recent agreement between President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin. The Greek-flagged tanker MINERVA ZEN, loaded with approximately 275,000 barrels of oil, departed from St. Petersburg in late September, though its departure was not disclosed for security reasons.

This cargo has sparked criticism from U.S. lawmakers and European officials who argue it would allow Moscow to bolster its military and continue its aggression against Ukraine. Kaja Kallas, Vice-President of the European Commission, stated that lifting sanctions on Russian diesel would generate additional revenue for Russia, fueling its war efforts.

In response, EU Foreign Ministers are set to approve a comprehensive set of sanctions against Russia's war machine on Monday. Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson criticized the U.S. decision to lift the embargo on Russian fuel, deeming it "sickening," while acknowledging the need for Ukraine's independence and sovereignty.

Meanwhile, U.S. negotiators have reportedly offered Russia three economic incentives – including potential access to frozen Russian assets, the possibility of resuscitating a previous deal worth up to $100 billion, and a multibillion-dollar sale of parts of the Russian oil giant Lukoil to Middle Eastern investors – in exchange for a limited ceasefire.

Ukraine supports this proposal but insists on receiving guarantees, such as payments from seized Russian assets and additional military aid if the ceasefire is breached.