Trump Advocates for End to Russia’s War on Ukraine Amid Diesel Price Surge
In Washington, President Trump has officially called for an end to Russia’s conflict with Ukraine following a series of Ukrainian strikes targeting Moscow’s energy assets, which have resulted in a noticeable increase in diesel fuel prices.
On his Truth Social account, Trump remarked, “Russia has unfortunately lost control of its Diesel Oil Industry due to its War with Ukraine.” He noted that many diesel refineries in Russia have been severely damaged and are currently, at least for the time being, out of operation. The president emphasized, “This ridiculous and never-ending War with Ukraine must be ended.”
He expressed sorrow over the consequences of the war, stating, “The whole World suffers as 25,000 people, mostly soldiers, are being killed each month. What a shame!”
Trump is slated to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. The U.S. president has voiced concerns urging Ukraine to refrain from long-range drone attacks on Russian oil facilities, suggesting that such actions could help restore stability in energy markets.
As of Monday morning, average diesel prices in the U.S. reached a staggering $6.51 per gallon, which is an increase from $6.23 just a week prior. Meanwhile, the average cost of regular gasoline also rose to $4.48 from $4.31 within the same timeframe.
Despite the U.S. imposing a ban on imports of Russian petroleum products since the start of the invasion in February 2022, destruction at processing plants in Russia has led to a global diesel shortage, affecting prices even in America.
Energy Secretary Christopher Wright stated earlier this month on CNN’s “State of the Union,” “The single biggest factor has been the Ukrainian destruction of Russian refineries,” adding that the Biden administration had shut down several refineries.
Ukraine’s attacks on Russian energy infrastructure are seen as both a response to Russian assaults on its own facilities and a strategy to weaken Moscow’s position. Recently, Trump’s special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, had an in-person meeting with Vladimir Putin.
Before meeting with Trump, Zelensky shared that he had spoken with the U.S. president, hinting that their upcoming conversation “could change a lot.” He expressed optimism about “diplomatic momentum,” mentioning, “We are working together with the American team and are ready to take really serious steps.”
The soaring diesel prices, combined with increasing gasoline costs linked to the conflict with Iran, are causing political challenges for Trump as the midterm elections approach. While he has implemented measures to lower gasoline prices—like military escorts for ships through the Strait of Hormuz—addressing the rising diesel prices has proven to be a more complicated issue.
