Reuters: US Hopes Diesel Supply Deal Will Soften Moscow's Position in Peace Talks

The United States hopes that a controversial diesel supply deal involving Russia will help moderate Moscow's demands and encourage progress in peace negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, Reuters reported on October 13, citing sources familiar with the diplomatic discussions.

Putin's conditions for talks

According to Reuters, Russian President Vladimir Putin has signaled he will only agree to enter peace negotiations after Russia gains full control of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions currently held by Ukrainian forces — a condition Kyiv has categorically rejected. The diesel deal is seen by some US officials as a potential economic incentive to shift Moscow's calculus.

Skepticism in Kyiv and Europe

Ukrainian officials and European partners have expressed deep skepticism about any agreement that would provide economic relief to Russia without meaningful security guarantees for Ukraine. Critics argue such concessions reward aggression and undermine Ukraine's negotiating position. The deal's precise terms and parties involved have not been fully disclosed publicly.