Trump Sparks UK Fury Over Reported Putin Diesel Deal and Calls for Zelensky Ouster

Former President Donald Trump has reportedly struck a deal with Russia to import diesel fuel and called for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to be ousted, sparking a strong backlash from the UK.

Boris Johnson, the former UK Prime Minister, led the criticism, calling the alleged agreement to lift sanctions on Russian fuel "sickening." Trump, according to reports, blamed Ukraine for soaring global fuel costs and demanded that Kyiv "better damn well stop" targeting Moscow's oil infrastructure. He suggested that Ukraine needs "a new leader who can make a deal."

Trump stated that the conflict should have never started and attributed its continuation to incompetence on Zelensky's part. This comes as reports indicate the US could potentially stop sharing intelligence with Kyiv as a consequence.

UK Response and Support for Ukraine

In response, UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting affirmed that "we stand with Ukraine." He suggested Trump's comments were influenced by domestic political pressures ahead of the US midterm elections, noting that the cost of living and energy prices are significant public concerns. "No doubt President Trump is feeling the same pressure that lots of leaders are facing in terms of wanting to ease cost-of-living pressures, energy prices," Streeting told Sky News. He added that while the US contribution to Ukrainian defense is often underestimated, the US administration has been highly engaged on the issue.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke with President Zelensky, reiterating "complete solidarity" and acknowledging the difficult period for Ukraine. They discussed the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia, with Sunak emphasizing the UK's commitment to strengthening sanctions and constraining Russia's war machine. The leaders agreed to meet in person in the coming days. Andy Burnham, a UK politician, also spoke with Zelensky to reassure him of ongoing UK support.

Trump's Stated Rationale

Trump reportedly sealed the agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin after Zelensky did not agree to demands to halt strikes on Russian oil infrastructure. Ukraine's successful targeting of this industry has created a crisis for Putin, though Russia still possesses surplus diesel. The reported agreement would allow for the import of almost two million tons of Russian supplies into the US. Trump's administration has previously signed sweeping sanctions against Russia, aimed at curtailing revenues that fund the war in Ukraine.

Despite the reported deal, Russia conducted a new strike on civilian areas in Zaporizhzhia, killing seven people, including children, and causing injuries and disappearances. This incident occurred in the immediate aftermath of the reported Trump-Putin call. Zelensky has previously accused Trump of weakness for allegedly caving to Putin. Trump, however, has defended his actions, stating, "He could have made many deals, and for some reason, he never does."

Johnson further criticized the US stance, stating on social media, "Putin is murdering innocent Ukrainian civilians every day. The Ukrainians are fighting for their lives. And yet the White House is apparently determined to force American drivers to bankroll Putin's slaughter." Johnson argued that the solution is to "end this war - with a free, sovereign and independent Ukraine."