Zelensky warns US-Russia oil deal could fund missile production

Criticism of oil agreements

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticised the oil deal that, according to him, was concluded by Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The head of state emphasised that granting Moscow permission to sell oil products creates a risk of providing Russia with additional financial resources, which could be directed towards continuing the full-scale invasion.

Link between financing and attacks on Kyiv

Volodymyr Zelensky linked these financial flows to the recent overnight shelling of the capital. In his words, it was then that the real intentions of the Russian leadership became apparent. Initially, the enemy used Shahed-type reactive drones to strike energy infrastructure, and subsequently launched ballistic missiles. Only part of the targets was successfully shot down.

The president explained the mechanism for using additional funds: they could go towards purchasing critical components and equipment for weapons production, modernising Shahed drones, manufacturing new missiles, as well as recruiting mercenaries to wage war against Ukraine.

«Російський вибір — це війна. І вони будуть готові її припинити тільки тоді, коли відчують, що потенціал затягування війни скорочується» (Russia's choice is war. And they will be ready to stop it only when they feel that the potential for prolonging the war is diminishing), the head of state stated.

Call to increase pressure on the aggressor

Volodymyr Zelensky noted that recently Russia received, in his opinion, false signals that could be perceived as permission to continue attacks. Therefore, he called on the United States, European countries, and other international partners to strengthen support for Ukraine and limit Russia's ability to continue the war and terrorise the civilian population.

«Потрібні сильні сигнали від Сполучених Штатів, від Європи, від інших партнерів. На підтримку України та на обмеження російської здатності воювати і тероризувати людей» (Strong signals are needed from the United States, from Europe, from other partners. In support of Ukraine and to limit Russia's ability to fight and terrorise people), the president emphasised.

The information was published on 10 October 2026.