On Friday Zelenskyy explained the defense deals in a briefing to journalists.
“We have arranged ten-year agreements with three countries,” he said, adding that in return for its combat expertise, Kyiv would receive missile interceptors, financial assistance, and most importantly, supplies of oil and diesel.
“In some cases, we receive crude oil that will be delivered to refineries in Europe for processing,” said Zelenskyy. “In others, we are talking about finished products — diesel.”
Kyiv is facing a massive fuel shortage, owing to Russia’s persistent targeting of fuel depots and the danger of keeping massive quantities of fuel in a country under attack.
Ukrainian gas prices have likewise skyrocketed, while the government has admitted it relies on foreign suppliers for about 85 percent of its fuel stocks. POLITICO previously reported how Ukrainian soldiers were rationing diesel — used to power heavier war machines, like tanks and other armored vehicles on the front lines.
Zelenskyy added he had secured enough fuel for the next year and that similar agreements were in the works with Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain.