More NATO Allies Question Trump’s Russia Diesel Deal

Ahead of an EU summit, Meloni also called for an authoritative European representative to negotiate over the Russia-Ukraine war.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has criticised the United States’ diesel supply agreement with Russia, warning that the arrangement could undermine efforts to pressure President Vladimir Putin into negotiations with Ukraine. Calling the deal a “very risky choice”, Meloni said its potential strategic costs were clear even as its economic benefits remained uncertain. “The outcome of this decision is uncertain, while the risks are clear,” Meloni told the Italian parliament on Wednesday ahead of a European Union summit this week.

Earlier, Zelenskyy had criticised the arrangement, arguing that Russian earnings from energy exports would help finance weapons production, the acquisition of critical components and the recruitment of additional personnel. In a statement posted on X, Zelenskyy said Russia’s continued attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities and its use of ballistic missiles demonstrated that Moscow intended to prolong the war.

Zelenskyy also described the decision to ease restrictions without a clear and lasting de-escalation agreement as a sign of weakness.

Meloni argued that the agreement could lend legitimacy to Moscow while Russian forces continue attacking Ukrainian cities, generate additional revenue for Russia’s war…

Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/world