'I want this war end' — Trump defends pro-Russian policies in scathing diatribe against Zelensky

U.S. President Donald Trump defended his recent decisions concerning Russia in a scathing online diatribe on October 18, 2023. The moves, which include waiving sanctions, a deal to buy diesel, and pressuring Ukraine to cease targeting oil refineries, have drawn criticism from Ukraine and the United States. Russia continues its attacks on Ukrainian cities, making no concessions towards a peace agreement in exchange for Trump's sanctions relief.

Trump claimed that his decision regarding Russia is part of a diplomatic plan to negotiate peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine, and he doesn't want to drive Russia away from the bargaining table. He described the progress made as "great," including ongoing hostage negotiations.

Trump defended a diesel deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin by claiming that Moscow is not aiding Iran in its war with the U.S., but is instead helping the global community by providing millions of barrels of diesel at a low price. He defended this choice, stating that Russia is doing little to help Iran compared to what it could be doing, and he wants to keep it that way, unless "stupid people" intervene.

With the war in Iran driving up global fuel prices, including for U.S. consumers, Trump has sought to blame Ukraine, specifically its successful strike campaign on Russian oil refineries.

Trump accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of not wanting to end the war, pointing to the ongoing attacks on oil refineries as a reason for rising diesel prices worldwide. Despite evidence pointing to the war in Iran as the primary driver of the surge in fuel prices, Trump blamed Ukraine for its actions. Trump doubled down on his criticism of Zelensky, stating that the Ukrainian leader could have made a better deal two years ago but now faces a devastated country with lost land, a depleted male population, and a reduced military.

In his statement, Trump expressed his desire for the war to end, emphasizing that a great deal depends on America's position.