U.S.-Russia deal on diesel is 'very risky choice,' Italy PM Meloni says
USO•Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the U.S.-Russia diesel deal a “very risky choice,” saying it could weaken sanctions and generate revenue for Russia. The countries agreed that Moscow would initially supply more than 300,000 metric tons of diesel to U.S. and global markets.
1. Meloni criticizes diesel deal
Meloni told Italy’s parliament that the deal runs counter to efforts to bring Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiations with Ukraine. She said its outcome was uncertain but its risks were clear, including giving Moscow legitimacy and revenue to finance the war while weakening sanctions.
2. Europe’s response
Meloni said the EU should appoint an authoritative figure to negotiate over the war, and did not rule out an official mandate for the E3 Group of Germany, France and Great Britain. She also said an EU summit would discuss Russian hybrid attacks, including drone incursions, cyber attacks and sabotage.
