Poland mocks Russia over US diesel deal, pointing to fuel shortages even in Moscow
Photo: Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski (Getty Images)
The diesel deal between the US and Russia has raised questions about Moscow’s actual ability to export fuel. Against the backdrop of damage to Russian refineries, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski pointed to a diesel shortage even in Moscow.
The Polish minister noted that the embassy is reporting a fuel shortage even in Moscow, which usually receives priority in supply.
He also drew attention to reports that approximately 50% of Russia’s oil refining capacity had been damaged as a result of Ukrainian strikes.
“So where will the surpluses for export come from?” asked the head of the Polish Foreign Ministry, casting doubt on Russia’s ability to increase diesel exports.
Diesel deal between the US and Russia
On October 9, US President Donald Trump announced an agreement with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on the supply of Russian diesel fuel to the global market.
Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noted that Russia did not offer the US any concessions regarding Ukraine in exchange for easing sanctions.
Washington’s decision also drew criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He stated that easing sanctions without a clear and lasting agreement on de-escalation would only help Russia continue the war.
Against this backdrop, the US also called on Ukraine to stop strikes on Russian infrastructure, threatening to halt the sharing of intelligence.
