Trump Urges Ukraine to Halt Attacks on Russian Refineries Over Fuel Prices
US President Donald Trump urged Ukraine to halt drone strikes on Russian refineries, citing soaring diesel prices and inflation concerns ahead of the US midterm elections.
Donald Trump Urges Ukraine to Halt Attacks on Russian Refineries
US President Donald Trump has publicly called on Ukraine to halt its drone attacks on Russian oil refineries, arguing that these strikes are directly responsible for a surge in diesel prices across the United States. Speaking to reporters during a weekend visit to Ireland, Trump emphasized that high fuel costs pose a significant political burden ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
"Zelensky has to do one thing: he must stop attacking the diesel in Russia," Trump told reporters. "Go after other targets, not diesel, because it is causing a shortage."
Impact on Global Fuel Markets and US Inflation
Ukrainian drone strikes have targeted Russia's refining capacity, creating domestic fuel shortages and prompting Moscow to extend its diesel export ban through September. On Friday, US diesel prices climbed to a record $6 per gallon. In addition to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, global energy supplies have been constrained by infrastructure damage resulting from the ongoing war involving Iran.
Key economic implications include:
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Surge in transportation costs across American manufacturing and agriculture.
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Annual US inflation reaching 3.4% in August.
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Growing speculation that the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates.
Political Pressures Ahead of Midterm Elections
With the midterm elections scheduled for November 3, the rising cost of living has emerged as a central campaign issue. While energy analysts point to multiple factors—including the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Brent crude rising to $108 per barrel—Trump insisted that the Middle East conflict is not the primary driver.
"This is not caused by the Middle East, this is caused by what is happening with Russia and Ukraine," Trump declared, despite diesel prices having risen by nearly 66% since late February.
