Meloni criticises US–Russia diesel deal

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the US–Russia diesel supply agreement risky in an address to parliament on October 14, saying it weakened sanctions pressure on Moscow.

Meloni argued that the outcome of Washington's decision remained uncertain while its risks were already apparent. She said the agreement brought Russia new revenue and gave Moscow additional legitimacy.

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin agreed on the arrangement during a telephone call on October 9. The US Treasury issued temporary authorisation for transactions involving Russian diesel until April 7, 2027.

The initial arrangement covers more than 300,000 tonnes of fuel for US and global markets. Trump said it was intended to lower energy prices in the United States.