Trump Mocks Critics Over Russia-China Support for Iran, Defends Diesel Deal

Former President Donald Trump has derided his critics as "Radical Left Morons and Lunatics" for suggesting that Russia and China are providing military assistance to Iran. Trump also defended his decision to purchase Russian diesel, a move that has drawn bipartisan condemnation.

Trump stated on social media that he does not believe Russia and China are significantly aiding Iran, asserting that they "have too much to lose" and that such actions would be quickly detected. He acknowledged that if any assistance is being provided, it is "at a very low level."

Earlier, Trump announced on social media that he had agreed to a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin for Russia to supply over 300,000 tons of diesel fuel, with additional large quantities to follow. This agreement was reportedly made during a phone call where Trump was initially expected to discuss a suspected plague outbreak in Russia.

The diesel deal has faced significant backlash from both Republicans and Democrats. Critics argue that the transaction benefits Russia's war effort in Ukraine, potentially violates existing laws, and moves the U.S. closer to Russia. The move also contrasts with a sweeping sanctions law Trump signed previously, aimed at curtailing Russia's oil and gas revenues used to fund the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy characterized the deal as a "weak decision" from "strong partners." Domestically, Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) warned that Putin cannot be trusted, citing Russia's ties with Iran and intelligence suggesting Moscow has shared information on U.S. troop locations. Tillis stated that Putin would "embarrass or undermine President Trump" at the first opportunity and that the deal puts American lives at risk.

Fox News host Brian Kilmeade also criticized the agreement, calling Putin the "modern Hitler of our generation" and warning that cooperation with Russia would be a major mistake for Trump's administration. He argued that American money flowing into Russia would support the aggressor in the Ukraine conflict.

Trump's decision comes amid rising global energy prices, partly attributed to the conflict involving Iran and disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. European allies, including Britain, France, and Germany, have supported efforts to protect energy infrastructure while continuing to back Ukraine. However, Trump's decision to ease restrictions on Russian diesel has drawn sharp criticism.

Seven U.S. senators, including four Republicans, issued a joint statement condemning the arrangement as illegal. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also attacked the move, stating it directly opposes the efforts of Ukraine, Canada, and their allies to establish peace and stability in Europe.

President Zelenskyy also rejected Trump's suggestion that Ukraine needed a leadership change, emphasizing that the choice of leaders rests with the Ukrainian society. He pointed to the conflict in the Middle East and shipping disruptions as the primary drivers of increased energy prices.