Full Breakdown
Trump Blames Ukrainian Diesel Strikes for U.S. Fuel Price Surge
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Core Event: Trump Urges Zelenskyy to Halt Russian Diesel Attacks
On a Sunday at the Irish Open in Doonbeg, Ireland, President Donald Trump told reporters that Ukrainian attacks on Russian diesel-producing facilities were creating a global shortage and driving U.S. diesel prices above $6 per gallon.
Background & Context: Energy Market Pressures
The Russia-Ukraine war has intensified a series of long-range Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries, which Moscow says have reduced its fuel output and prompted a ban on diesel exports that began in July and was extended through September. At the same time, the United States and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran in February, disrupting oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. Both conflicts have been cited as factors influencing global fuel markets.
Data & Statistics: Diesel Prices and Oil Benchmarks
- The American Automobile Association recorded a national average diesel price of $6.06 a gallon, the highest level ever reported in the United States.
- Compared with the same period last year, the price is up roughly 60 % from $3.71 a gallon.
- Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose to as high as $109 per barrel during the same week.
Official Statements & Responses
He added that there are “plenty of other targets” for Kyiv and that “don’t hit diesel fuel, because that’s hurting the world.”
Ukraine’s military officials have defended the attacks, describing Russian refineries as “legitimate military targets” that fund Moscow’s war effort. Kyiv has repeatedly emphasized that its campaign aims to diminish Russia’s revenue and its ability to sustain the invasion of Ukraine.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mr. Zelenskyy has to do one thing: he has to stop knocking out diesel fuel in Russia,” — Donald Trump, week US president
- “Let him go after targets, but not diesel fuel because he's causing a shortage of diesel,” — Donald Trump, week US president
- “So we spoke to Mr. Zelensky about it. There are plenty of other targets,” — Donald Trump, week US president
- “Don’t hit diesel fuel, because that’s hurting the world,” — Donald Trump, week US president