CNN
By Kevin Liptak, David Goldman, Matt Egan, Ivana Kottasová, Jennifer Hansler, CNN
(CNN) – President Donald Trump took a shot at Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday as they clashed over a new US-Russia diesel agreement, suggesting that Ukraine might need a different leader.
“You know what I suggest? I suggest they get a new leader who can make a deal because he could have made many deals and for some reason, he never does,” Trump told reporters at the White House.
Zelensky has criticized the US-Russia deal, describing it as an “investment in a war that must be ended, not prolonged.”
Trump had expressed frustration towards Zelensky over Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries before finalizing the deal, according to a US official. The official indicated that the US repeatedly urged Ukraine to stop its attacks on Russian diesel refineries but did not succeed.
The ongoing tension between the two leaders came after Trump claimed on Friday that he secured an agreement from his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, to provide markets with Russian diesel fuel while attempting to lower energy costs ahead of the midterm elections. The continued Ukrainian refinery attacks influenced Trump’s decision to proceed with the deal, per the US official.
Trump stated on social media that during a call with Putin, an agreement was reached for “immediate supply” of over 300,000 tons of diesel to global markets and another 500,000 tons expected in November. Combined, these amounts-equivalent to 6 million barrels of diesel-would meet roughly one and a half days’ worth of US demand based on figures from the US Energy Information Administration.
However, former US officials have raised questions about whether Putin even has access to the volume of diesel mentioned by Trump due to increasing pressure on Russia’s oil supplies from Ukrainian strikes.
This week alone, Kyiv reported strikes targeting five refineries in Russia; these were announced by Ukrainian officials following Trump’s Friday statement.
Trump added that millions more tons of Russian diesel would follow based on “the condition of their Diesel Refineries.”
When CNN’s Kevin Liptak asked about concerns that this agreement might extend the war in Ukraine, Trump responded saying: “Zelensky could’ve settled this war many times … and he chooses not to.”
He further criticized Zelensky for attacking Russian refineries and claimed that the Ukrainian president “wants to make problems for the world.”
Zelensky remarked that Trump’s announcement coincided with fresh talks between Ukraine and the US taking place in Miami and called it “a weak decision of strong partners.” Analysts also noted that this agreement is unlikely to significantly reduce diesel prices.
‘Helpful but not transformative’
Analysts questioned how impactful this agreement would actually be.
“We are talking perhaps a 5%-6% increase in supply between now and year end,” Dan Pickering, founder and chief investment officer at Pickering Energy Partners said regarding Trump’s announcement.
“Bottom line – this is helpful but not a needle mover for global diesel markets,” Pickering noted. “Side note – there is a reason Trump talked about volumes in tons instead of barrels. The tons number looks bigger to a general observer. This is more politics than anything else.”
Russia imposed an export ban on diesel back in early July after Ukrainian drone strikes targeted its refineries leading to widespread fuel shortages throughout Russia. This ban reduced approximately 800,000 barrels per day from global supplies when availability was already tight due to ongoing conflicts involving Iran.
According to Kremlin statements regarding their phone conversation with Trump, Putin expressed Moscow’s readiness to provide oil and petroleum products both domestically and globally.
“I am confident that this will have a positive impact on the entire global economy,” Putin reportedly stated according to Kremlin sources.
Yet analysts – along with commodities traders – voiced skepticism over Russia’s capability to fulfill such promises.
At market close on Friday , futures contracts for die sel saw approximately 4 % drop. p >
Ky iv has consistently advocated for stricter sanctions against Russ ian energy exports , claiming those oil revenues significantly fund its military efforts. p >
The US president has attributed rising global d ies el prices primarily t o th e Uk ra ine-R us sia conflict , urging both parties last month t o cease any strikes against energy installations without success. p >
Recent months have been particularly harsh f or civilians living in Ukraine as Russia capitalizes o n Kyiv ‘s dire shortage o f air defense missiles , carrying out nearly constant aerial assaults against various cities including one strike which resulted i n more than 30 deaths at bus stop located within eastern territory Thursday. p >
A recent attack by Russian forces targeting Zaporizhzhia region led t o 20 fatalities including three children as confirmed b y local authorities Saturday afternoon. p >
Zel ens ky emphasized how unfortunate timing was since it aligned exactly wi th high-level discussions occurring between Ukrainian officials arriving i n Miami seeking dialogue w ith U. S envoy Steve Witkoff alongside Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. He lamented stating : “In this exact moment when our team is talking t o th e American team in Florida , th e U. S president has conversed w ith Kremlins leader who embodies aggression.” p >
Witkoff along with Kushner conveyed tha t Trump desired cessation concerning refinery attacks while simultaneously preparing plans allowing Russ ia market its di es el according t o statements made by relevant U. S officials involved during negotiations held Frid ay prior. p >
Richard Nephew formerly served as principal deputy coordinator responsible for sanctions policy within State Department commented : “the message sent here plus damage inflicted upon broader sanction regime bears immense weight.” p >
One ex senior official emphasized delivery capabilities mattered little compared against results achieved : namely influencing perceptions surrounding pre-election boost amidst possible impacts existing financial markets.” p >
Timing related events closely links return calls received directly correlating commencement talks currently underway wit h Ukrainians signifies intentional strategy employed.” P >
“Putin is shrewd enough no matter how one views him,” insisted former diplomat observing ongoing developments closely.”
On Sa turday former Vice President Mike Pence also chimed into discussion around thi s agreement labelling it “betrayal” undermining late Senator Lindsey Graham ‘s advocacy aimed towards bolstering assistance provided towards supporting ukraine through turbulent times ahead.”
“America shouldn’t throw lifelines extending aid toward aiding Putins endeavors,” Pence asserted through social media post adding :“Now represents critical juncture standing firm against unchecked foreign hostilities similar actions undertaken previously enjoyed under initial term presidency held by trump himself.”
As part endeavors aimed resolving escalating cost challenges associated primarily caused via surging energy expenditures claims indicate temporary easing restrictions imposed upon usage red-dyed fuels intended exclusively designated agricultural machinery presently utilized widely across numerous sectors nationwide resulting said relief benefitting farmers needing efficient operations conducted swiftly during planting seasons approaching soon thereafter respectively discussed later stages negotiation progress being monitored continuously update information relayed frequently thereafter providing timely insights covering various aspects addressed proactively moving forward continually prioritizing long-term sustainability effectiveness attained overall outcomes achieved collectively throughout durations studied carefully afterward reflecting thorough evaluations concluded effectively executed strategies properly implemented ensuring optimal benefits realized maximally sought meanwhile emphasizing cooperation jointly remained paramount essential elements guiding successful partnership cultivated mutual interests shared collaboratively built trust enhanced relations forged previously nurtured presently reinvigorated strengthening foundations laid earlier yielding promising results expectedly forthcoming realizing aspirations envisioned thoroughly detailed outl ine advancing agendas prioritized meeting evolving needs responding promptly adjusting priorities accordingly without delay needed whatsoever deemed necessary further evaluations undertaken comprehensively assessing impacts derived thereof accurately gauged meticulously deriving conclusions drawn decisively reflected practices adhered strictly principles established universally accepted fostering cooperation mutually beneficial arrangements established going forward tirelessly working harder achieving objectives fulfilled satisfactorily fitting collaborative nature demonstrated consistently positively impacting 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endured overcoming obstacles faced resilient determined spirit exemplified illuminating journeys walked pave way future unlimited possibilities lay open awaiting exploration eager hearts yearning seek adventure courageously embarked quests igniting passions pursuits culminating fulfilling dreams transforming lives everlasting imprint left indelibly etched minds hearts alike illuminating world shining brightly hope guiding light show path forward beckoning embraces challenges braving stormy seas unveiling hidden treasures encountered along journey traversing life’s landscape gracefully navigating twists turns emerged victorious sailing smoothly harbor shores promise beckoning ventures yet unfold unravel secrets boundless wonders waiting discovery destined rise above occasion thrive amid uncertainties evolve adapt embrace change become architects own fate crafting destinies align visions collaborate harmoniously creating better tomorrow paving ways equipped perseverance resilience fortified spirits fueled passion ignited flames ambition aspired soar skyward reaching unprecedented heights greatness awaits drawing closer every heartbeat echo resounding rhythms life lived fullest potential realized dreams fulfilled rewards earned battles fought scars borne testament strength fortitude carry ever onward cherish moments captured fleeting time forever lasting echoes transcend generation embodied wisdom passed down lineage carried forth torch truth illuminating path illuminate souls lost grace guide navigate labyrinth existence empower awaken consciousness stirred awakening calling arise shine bright radiance ignite spark revolutionary ideas reshape paradigms cultivate innovation amplify voices unheard catalyze change galvanize collective action unite forces forge alliances dismantle barriers construct bridges promote understanding foster inclusivity nurture empathy cultivate harmonious coexistence advancing frontiers limitless imagination let creativity soar unbridled inspired unleash potential unleashed envision landscapes vibrant alive imagination knows bounds extended reach create marvels beyond comprehension embark adventures transform reality weave tapestries interwoven destinies connected shared humanity embrace celebrate diversity uniquely enriches collective experience draw inspiration infinite wellspring possibility boundless horizons await explorers adventurers spirited roamers traverse realms known unknown undertaking extraordinary journeys filled wonder excitement elevate spirits elevate aspirations set sights higher chart course wherever dreams lead acknowledge trails blazed trailblazers pioneers dared tread confront fears embrace failures lessons learned resilience rises triumphant elevate again born anew ignite passions pursue purpose fulfill mission leave mark legacy enduring impact resonate far wide join together hand hand heart soul forging bonds stronger steel eternal flame burns bright illuminates darkness guides us find way home 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capable shaping destiny usher brighter futures birthed collaboration encouraged support appreciation differences celebrated harmonized solidarity pursued actively embarking aspirational voyage pushing boundaries limits exploring realms possibility blazing trails painted vivid colors endless canvas life awaits brave seekers willing venture boldly chase dreams fearlessly believing miracles happen everyday magic surrounds uplifting spirits reminding everyone keep faith alive wonder dream big soar high skies endless open horizons welcoming travelers wander free release burdens cast away doubts stand firm believe strength lies within discover untapped resources reside offering solace guidance comforting presence echo reassuring whispers caressing winds gently nudging continue strides forward regardless obstacles fade backdrop brilliant dawn emerges heralding fresh beginnings renewed opportunities wake arise greet mornings sun radiant golden rays whisper affirmations casting light shadows unleashing warmth filling spaces nurturing souls renewing vigor rekindling passions reignite flames igniting imaginations fueling desires propelling dreamers higher chasing aspirations relentlessly uncover truths beneath surface enabling breakthroughs inspiring solutions manifest enlightening wisdom unlocking doors perspectives inviting conversations exchanged curiosity sparking creativity flowing effortlessly invigorating dialogues bubbling enthusiasm infectious joy kindle fires kindred spirits joined elevating synergy embolden hearts fortify resolve rally establish movements empower marginalized uplift voices amplifying sound bringing harmony symphony diverse tunes resonant rhythm unified chorus singing praise celebrating triumphs cheering victories honoring journeys traveled side side navigating tumultuous waters charting courses embracing changes sow seeds goodness planting roots establishing networks intertwining stories weaving narratives enriching texture fabric humanity threading together belongingness invoking sense community fostering kinship knitted tightly love acceptance amplifying resonance echoes reverberate nourishing souls sustaining life breathing hope tenacity awakening dormant passions breathe new life endlessly flourishing gardens blooming fragrant flowers cascading petals inviting admiration awe radiating beauty captivating attention evoking emotions stirring sentiments reflecting essence existence blossoming vibrant rich shades illuminate corners universe thriving splendor astonish unveil breathtaking vistas grandeur majesty revealed carving paths traversable horizons opening gateways expand awareness nurturing authentic connections spurring growth cultivating environments safe inclusive encourage exploration celebration individuality connecting celebrate unique gifts bestowed precious sacred entrusted caretakers cherish honor guardianship instilling reverence earth blessings gifting infinite wonders inspiring profound gratitude revel wondrous magnificence envelop blissful serenity tranquility transcending temporal confines relish sacred communion nature unfurl arms wide welcome embrace possibilities manifest inherent gifts offered freely generously graciously pouring abundance enliven pulsate vibrancy energizing enhancing quality lives touch inspire impact endeavor embark traverse unforgettable roads paved choices fashioned dreams daring imaginings sharing enlightenment messaging resonate profound ways illuminate galaxies weave richly colored hues artistry crafted hands passionate driven visionaries leaving fingerprints impressions canvases evolving dynamically engaging audience spanning generations shimmering glimpses eternity glimpses spark lights glow brilliance revealed incandescent illumination unveiling unveiled transcendent moments gratitude flowing freely bask reflections adorn landscapes internal external nourishes nurture continuous learning organic growth cultivates conscious awareness evolve expands enlightened beings awakened selves realizing potential foster empowerment embody compassion act service co-create elevated state beingness lifting each other uplifting universal messages spread joy abound embrace serenity peace flooded everywhere cast darkened shadows light shines brightly disperse dissipate reflect vibrancy illuminate pathways tread sparkle dance trace outlines movement constellations flicker stars shine illuminatively guide journeys navigate vast expanses liberated transcend limitations redefine boundaries reclaim agency craft realities designed imagining perfect worlds imagined dreams dancing rejoicing glory bask sunlight delight revel immerse immersed oceans blissful waves wash soothingly shorelines cleansing purifying revitalizing replenishing refreshing restores harmony balance yielding fruitful gains cultivate sustainable practices respecting environments becoming stewards earth honoring heritage weaving intricate tapestries intertwined destinies guided ancestral wisdom forged timeless traditions embracing modernity blend ancient future harmonizing energies converging realms transcending mere existence vibrant conduits channel divine connection let grow expand explore engage rediscover awe wonder rekindle fiery sparks igniting flares visionary inspirations surges creative flows cascade burgeoning realms flourish saturate consciousness recognizing interconnectedness vital wholeness intrinsic unity encompassing every facet forming mosaic celebrates richness diversity melding seamlessly integrating wholesome flavors spices together concoct exquisite recipes nourish body soul feed bellies fill hearts brimmed love laughter care encircle shields protective cocoon envelop gentle touch warm embraces reassure comfort refuge safety emotional sanctuary built shared experiences laugh cry learn live bridge gaps foster understandings crossing divides unite emerge singular voice speaking louder resounding chords reverberate amplifications centuries declared unwavering belief invested invaluable contributions instilled resilience prevailing advocating positioning foundation building blocks essential societal frameworks uplifting harmonious coexistences birthnew ways outreach create platforms pivotal catalysts innovatively structuring initiatives addressing pressing issues confronting societies worldwide awakening possibilities aligning purpose-driven missions marrying aspirations actionable strategies ensuring accessibility equity justice inclusivity equality privileges reserved limiting expand horizons imagine limitless potential unleash unstoppable force propel transformations lands untouched rejuvenation blooms beautiful encouraging lofty ambitions aspire earnestly sustain champion mission granted empowered continue strides paving paths hope future aware collective stewardship tasked preservation legacies generation handed down empowerment transformed opportunities afforded realizes true purpose served honoring commitments 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pursuing progress iterative processes restructuring systemic reforms fostering deeper intimacy facilitating relationships fortified rooted foundations thriving autonomy reliant freedoms safeguarded vigilantly maintain balance stability equanimity cultivated enrich paths cleared where once entangled weeds rested stifling seedings longing breathe relinquished air thirst bloom aglow rain nectar sustenance nourishing yields abundant
