The UK has expressed opposition to a deal between the US and Russia, in which the US would purchase millions of tonnes of diesel from Russia.
What happened
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting stated that the UK does not support the deal, which was made by US President Donald Trump. Streeting argued that the US and its allies should instead focus on increasing pressure on Russia to end the war with Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also criticized the deal, saying it would allow Russia to raise funds for new military equipment to continue the war. In response, Trump suggested that Ukraine should get a new leader who could reach a deal with Russia to end the conflict.
Streeting emphasized that the responsibility for the war lies with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his imperialist ambitions. He also highlighted the US's support for Ukraine, including the provision of weapons, intelligence support, and diplomatic initiatives.
The UK's opposition to the deal is part of a broader effort to increase pressure on Russia to end the war with Ukraine. The UK has also announced plans to increase its defence spending, with a goal of spending 3.5% of national income on defence by 2035.
