Trump tells Zelenskyy to stop hitting Russian diesel supplies

President Donald Trump on Sunday told Ukraine's leader that Kyiv should stop targeting diesel production facilities in Russia, arguing such strikes are worsening a global shortage of the fuel. Trump said he had raised the issue directly with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and urged Kyiv to avoid striking diesel infrastructure, pointing to broader impacts on world markets.

The appeal comes amid a series of long-range Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian refineries that have, according to reports, reduced Russia's fuel output and contributed to shortages within the country. Kyiv maintains that attacking fuel facilities tied to Russia's oil industry is a legitimate part of its campaign, saying the sector helps finance and supply Moscow's war effort.

Diesel has seen sharp price increases in recent months. The American Automobile Association recorded a national average diesel price of $6.06 per gallon on Friday, up from $3.71 a year earlier. Because diesel powers ships, trains and trucks, higher prices for the fuel push up transportation costs and the price of goods for consumers.

Analysts and international agencies say the diesel squeeze reflects multiple conflicts. The International Energy Agency noted in its September 11 report that disruptions to Russia's refining system and a near-halt to product exports following intensified Ukrainian attacks have worsened losses, while fighting involving Iran has also disrupted flows through key sea routes. Global crude benchmarks have climbed past $100 per barrel recently, with Brent reaching about $109 at one point, underscoring broader strain on energy markets.