Zelensky says US-Russia diesel deal is a 'birthday gift' to Putin to 'kill us, kill our children'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sharply criticized the recent U.S.-brokered diesel fuel deal with Russia, calling it a "birthday gift" that provides financial support to President Vladimir Putin. Speaking to ABC’s This Week, Zelensky argued the agreement indirectly aids Russia’s war efforts by generating revenue for Moscow. He emphasized that the funds could be used to sustain military operations, framing the deal as a setback for Ukraine’s defense. The comments highlight growing tensions over Western aid measures amid the ongoing conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday said the U.S.-Russia diesel deal is a "birthday gift" to allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to "kill us, kill our children." When asked by ABC's Jonathan Karl on "This Week" about his remark that the deal helps Putin as a "gift," Zelensky explained that it "gives Putin money and...