A former NATO commander has issued a stark warning that President Donald Trump’s recently brokered diesel agreement with Russia could inadvertently provide Vladimir Putin with crucial revenue to finance his ongoing war in Ukraine, while simultaneously allowing Moscow to stall through negotiations it has no intention of upholding. Retired Gen. Philip Breedlove, who previously served as NATO’s supreme allied commander Europe, expressed concern to Fox News Digital that striking such a deal with Russia, which he labeled “the enemy,” risks significantly undermining Ukraine’s war effort. Breedlove asserted that any funds generated from this agreement would directly fuel Putin’s continued aggression. This warning comes as Russia announced a partial lifting of its diesel export ban following the agreement, which reportedly involves supplying substantial quantities of diesel to the global market. Trump also announced an “energy ceasefire” between Russia and Ukraine, claiming both sides agreed to halt attacks on energy infrastructure. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated Kyiv was not fully informed of a finalized agreement and accused Putin of consistently rejecting peace proposals and continuing strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities, stating that Putin’s only answer to Ukraine’s de-escalatory steps has been “nyet.” Zelenskyy highlighted that Russian forces had launched over 200 strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in the past week alone, resulting in numerous casualties. Breedlove further argued that while Ukraine’s attacks on Russian energy facilities aim to disrupt war financing, Russia’s actions constitute a deliberate campaign against the Ukrainian people. He predicted that the U.S. would pressure Zelenskyy to cease these attacks, despite their strategic importance, while Trump has criticized them for disrupting global diesel supplies and increasing costs. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the diesel deal, emphasizing its benefit in lowering prices for Americans. Zelenskyy, meanwhile, reiterated his willingness to organize Ukrainian elections if Putin reciprocated with a ceasefire, though such a vote faces legal and logistical hurdles. Breedlove remains deeply skeptical of Putin honoring any agreement, citing a historical pattern of Russian attacks following negotiations with Trump, and urged a stronger U.S. stance against Putin’s war.
Adapted from: Latest World News on Fox News
