Kremlin comments on two tankers carrying Russian diesel fuel that reportedly changed course en route to U.S.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed concerns over two tankers carrying Russian diesel fuel changing course en route to the United States, stating that the shipments were commercial and their routes did not relate to the U.S. electoral process. Peskov emphasized that the diesel fuel would find its buyers. The Financial Times reported that the tankers had altered their paths, potentially due to uncertainty surrounding the legality of the shipments and possible sanctions.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill had cautioned port terminal operators about the potential consequences of accepting such shipments. Peskov noted that the route changes illustrated challenges in implementing an agreement between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, aimed at boosting Trump's support and addressing rising diesel prices.

Despite this, the agreement did not benefit Republicans during the midterm elections, as Democrats gained ground in traditionally Republican states. Russian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the U.S. decision, deeming it weak, particularly since Ukraine's negotiating team was present in the United States at that time.