Zelensky Challenges Trump Over Russia Diesel Deal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has openly criticized former President Donald Trump, labeling him “weak” for a diesel deal struck with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kyiv’s allies, including those in Trump’s circle, have pushed back against this deal, which poses a potential threat to cutting off weapons and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.

During an interview with Fox News’s Bill Hemmer, Zelensky took a strong stance against Trump’s accusations involving high diesel prices. He argued that the ongoing U.S. conflict with Iran, not attacks on Russian diesel supplies, has driven these prices. Zelensky underscored that the Strait of Hormuz blockade is a key factor impacting diesel costs.

Last Friday, Trump announced the lifting of sanctions on Russian diesel exports, intending to lower U.S. fuel prices amid the midterm elections. This decision has faced substantial opposition, particularly concerning its implications for Eastern European peace. Fox News hosts Mark Levin and Brian Kilmeade have been vocal about their concerns, pointing to Putin’s role in regional instability and his ties with Iran.

In addition to Zelensky’s remarks, key developments have taken place in defense and national security. Oil prices climbed on Monday following attacks on two airports in Saudi Arabia by Iranian-backed Houthis. Brent Crude closed nearly $106 per barrel, with West Texas Intermediate Crude reaching $94.36. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed uncertainty about the end of the ongoing Iran conflict, which marks eight months. Meanwhile, Archbishop Timothy Broglio criticized the Trump administration’s plan to livestream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan, warning against mimicking terrorist tactics.

The Pentagon, in collaboration with the Small Business Administration, unveiled a new agreement aimed at enhancing strategic capital access for small businesses in the defense sector. This builds on the Smaller War Plants Commission initiative introduced in August, which supports suppliers, innovators, and manufacturers.

In related news, Rep. Don Beyer criticized the federal raid on Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home. Additionally, events in the defense sector included the Association of the United States Army’s annual meeting and the Hudson Institute’s Czech-US Defense and Security Forum.

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