Context: The US–Russia agreement on diesel has sparked political reactions and concerns related to sanctions and prices
Before the AfD leader’s request, several European leaders reacted to the announced agreement between the United States and Russia for diesel deliveries. Bulgaria’s prime minister supported the agreement, arguing that any measure that reduces fuel prices and supports Europe’s competitiveness deserves appreciation, while the majority of European leaders described the agreement as risky and dangerous.
The criticisms also concerned the effects on sanctions and the war in Ukraine. Giorgia Meloni warned that the agreement could legitimize Moscow, generate additional revenue to finance the war, and reduce the effectiveness of Western pressure, while also calling for the European Union to have an official role in negotiations concerning Ukraine.
Meanwhile, analysts estimated that the impact on fuel prices could be limited, and the discussions were amplified by the proximity of the US midterm elections. In this context, criticism also emerged from some voices in the US, who argued that lifting sanctions on imports of Russian diesel could contribute to financing Moscow’s war effort.
