UK defence chief urges Britain to mediate US-Ukraine row over Russian diesel purchase
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said Britain should act as a peacemaker between the United States and Ukraine after President Trump’s plan to buy Russian diesel sparked criticism from President Zelensky.
Britain’s defence secretary, Wes Streeting, called on the UK to step in as a mediator after President Donald Trump announced a purchase of millions of tonnes of diesel from Russia, a move condemned by President Volodymyr Zelensky as prolonging the war. Streeting said the United Kingdom can help bring the allies back together, recalling past US-Ukraine tensions. He highlighted that soaring diesel prices are driven by the US-Israel conflict with Iran and the Russia-Ukraine war, and that Trump faces domestic pressure ahead of the midterm elections to curb living-cost pressures.
While acknowledging the diplomatic strain, Streeting warned not to exaggerate the deal’s effect on overall US aid to Ukraine, noting continued British support and plans to increase pressure on Russia. Prime Minister Andy Burnham reiterated solidarity with Zelensky and pledged additional steps to constrain Russia’s war capabilities.
Why it matters
The dispute could strain NATO unity and affect global fuel markets amid rising energy costs.
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