Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russia diesel deal championed by President Donald Trump amounts to a win for Vladimir Putin, arguing it has left the Russian leader “laughing” and placed the United States on the wrong side of history.
In an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored, the Ukrainian president said he felt “betrayed” by the U.S. decision to loosen sanctions on Russian diesel. Addressing Mr Trump directly, he added, “This is not the right side of history.”
His comments came during a visit to Downing Street on Wednesday, where he was received by the Prime Minister.
Russia diesel deal
Irish Guards troops provided an unusual honor guard for Mr Zelensky’s arrival at No 10, a moment that coincided with what Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham called “dark and difficult days” for Ukraine.
Asked whether he felt “betrayed” by developments including the diesel decision and reports of an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, Mr Zelensky answered, “Really, yes, between us.”
He said an energy ceasefire is acceptable as a “step to peace,” but argued it has not been observed by Russia, which he said has continued airstrikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
“It is a pity that we are losing a strong partner,” Mr Zelensky said. He added, “Now Putin is laughing because, I mean, this is for him, simple victory – this diesel deal.”
In recent days, Mr Trump has also suggested Ukraine needs new leadership and claimed Mr Putin is more inclined toward a peace agreement than Kyiv. Concerns have additionally been raised about U.S. intelligence sharing and use of Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite network, which Mr Zelensky said had been “blocked.”
Ukraine relies on Starlink to defend against air attacks and to support long-range drones striking targets in Russia. Mr Zelensky called the decision “not right,” saying it was a mistake that will cost lives.
Analysts have noted that a Russian diesel deal is unlikely to significantly ease global fuel prices, despite political pressure.