White House defends Russia diesel deal after Meloni criticism

The White House defended President Trump's diesel agreement with Russia against criticism from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, calling it a "great deal" that will lower global fuel prices. The exchange signals potential friction in bilateral relations ahead of the G20 summit in Miami in December. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers said the deal prioritizes lowering prices for American farmers, truckers, and families, while urging both Russia and Ukraine to stop attacks on refineries. This response directly counters Meloni's Senate remarks calling the agreement "very risky" and warning it legitimizes Moscow and funds its war effort. Meloni also linked fuel price increases to the war in Iran, not Ukraine, adding to existing tensions over US operations and base access. Trump separately dismissed skeptical Republicans and said Ukrainian President Zelensky should focus on making a deal rather than discussing it.