Three Russian Diesel Tankers Sail for US Coast

Three tankers loaded with Russian diesel are currently moving toward the eastern coast of the Atlantic Ocean, according to Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak. The ships represent the initial shipment under a new supply deal that allows Russian companies to deliver 500,000 metric tonnes of fuel to US and global markets in October.

The arrangement was announced this month by US President Donald Trump. In exchange for Russia supplying diesel to help lower fuel prices, the US agreed to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian fuel. Novak stated that the first three vessels are traveling with support from the Russian Direct Investment Fund.

Reuters identified one of the ships as the Malta-flagged medium-sized tanker Agioi Fanendes. The vessel is loaded with ultra-low sulphur diesel and is expected to arrive in the United States on November 7.

The movement of these tankers coincides with diplomatic efforts to restart peace talks in Ukraine. The White House announced on Friday that Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a ceasefire in the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky. Both sides will halt all military operations in the city starting October 27. This pause is intended to allow aid delivery and preparations for civilian evacuation.

Oleshky, located in southern Ukraine, has been under Russian occupation since February 2022. An estimated 2,000 people remain in the city, facing severe shortages of food, water, and electricity. Residents have reported surviving on weeds, boiled grass, and limited rations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on Friday that negotiators from Ukraine, Russia, and the US have agreed to hold technical-level meetings in Abu Dhabi during the first half of November. A US official indicated that the three countries might meet again in a few weeks, potentially in Abu Dhabi or Switzerland. Zelenskyy expressed hope for a subsequent meeting among the national leaders.

This diplomatic push follows recent tensions between Washington and Kyiv. These included limits placed on the Starlink communication system used by Ukraine for defense. Trump said on Friday that if Ukraine continues to face access issues, he would address the matter, potentially involving SpaceX CEO Elon Musk. Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that repairs to power infrastructure near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant were completed under a temporary ceasefire. The work strengthened the plant's connection to its sole remaining external power line.

EU leaders met with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham in Brussels to urge greater contributions to Ukraine's defense. The UK government is scheduled to present its first budget under Burnham's leadership next week. EU officials also called for increased support from Canada and Japan.