Trump Says Russia Has ‘Lost Control’ of Diesel Industry After Ukrainian Drone Strikes
President Trump said Monday that Russia has “lost control” of its diesel industry after repeated Ukrainian drone attacks knocked numerous Russian oil refineries out of operation, as he renewed his call for an end to the war between Moscow and Kyiv.
“Russia has unfortunately lost control of its Diesel Oil Industry due to its War with Ukraine,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. He said a large number of Russian diesel refineries had been damaged or destroyed and were at least temporarily out of commission.
Trump described the continuing conflict as “ridiculous” and argued that the consequences are being felt far beyond Russia and Ukraine. He also cited the enormous human toll of the war, claiming approximately 25,000 people, primarily soldiers, are being killed each month.
His comments follow another massive round of Ukrainian attacks against targets inside Russia. Ukrainian forces launched more than 1,000 drones over the weekend, including hundreds aimed toward Moscow, while Russian forces responded with additional strikes across Ukraine.
Russia’s oil infrastructure has become an increasingly important target for Ukraine. Kyiv has used long-range drones to attack refineries and other energy facilities in an effort to damage an industry that provides significant revenue and fuel for Russia’s war effort.
The attacks are also having consequences for global energy markets. Russia, traditionally one of the world’s major diesel exporters, halted diesel exports in July following damage to its refineries. Global diesel prices have since climbed to record levels as the Ukraine and Iran conflicts disrupt supplies from several major producing countries.
American drivers are also feeling the impact. U.S. retail diesel prices have climbed above $6 per gallon for the first time, while domestic inventories remain roughly 15% below their five-year seasonal average despite American refineries operating at their highest utilization level in eight years.
Trump has reportedly urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to stop attacking Russian oil refineries because of concerns that the strikes are contributing to the worldwide diesel shortage. Ukraine has defended its attacks as a way to pressure Moscow and weaken Russia’s ability to continue financing and supplying the war.
Zelenskyy responded to Trump’s latest comments by agreeing that the war needs to end and maintaining that Ukraine has sought peace. The Ukrainian leader is traveling to New York for the United Nations General Assembly, where he is expected to meet with President Trump.
The meeting comes as the Trump administration attempts to revive negotiations aimed at reducing the fighting. With attacks intensifying and disruptions to Russia’s energy industry contributing to pressure on global fuel markets, Trump is pushing both sides toward steps that could lead to de-escalation and renewed negotiations.