EU Maintains Sanctions Amid U.S.-Russia Diesel Deal

The European Union is preparing its largest set of sanctions against Russia since the war began, despite President Donald Trump’s recent agreement with Vladimir Putin to supply U.S. and global markets with Russian diesel.

Germany has stated its sanctions policy remains unchanged, with officials noting that support for Ukraine’s defense is unaffected by the U.S. decision. The country is also coordinating with European allies on additional measures against Russia.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that foreign ministers will meet on October 12 to approve new sanctions. She argued that easing sanctions on Russian diesel would provide Moscow with more funds to continue the war, and warned of recent Russian violence against Ukraine and EU countries.

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo criticized Trump’s deal, calling it a 'terrible disappointment' and suggesting additional sanctions, including a ban on Russian tourist visas.

Trump announced the diesel agreement on October 9, claiming it would help lower global fuel prices. He outlined a plan for Russia to supply 4.8 million metric tons of diesel over several months. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the deal, stating it would not bring peace and ending a U.S. visit early.

On October 11, Trump claimed an 'energy ceasefire' between Russia and Ukraine was in effect. Zelenskyy welcomed the announcement but noted that attacks on Ukraine continued, including drone strikes and energy facility damage. He reported over 150 deaths and 700 injuries from Russian strikes on energy infrastructure.