Sweden's Kristersson says Russian diesel deal is a step "in the wrong direction" that could help finance Moscow's war

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said Thursday that Sweden regretted the U.S.-Russia diesel agreement, calling it a step "in the wrong direction" that could provide Moscow with additional resources to finance its war in Ukraine.

Kristersson said measures that increase Russia's revenues risk weakening Western pressure on President Vladimir Putin and sending the wrong signal at a time when Ukraine is under sustained Russian attack.

He said Sweden backed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's criticism of the agreement and would continue supporting efforts to keep economic pressure on Russia.

The diesel deal, announced by President Donald Trump and Putin, allows Russian fuel exports back onto global markets as Washington seeks to ease pressure on diesel prices.

Several European leaders have criticized the agreement, arguing that easing restrictions on Russian energy risks strengthening Moscow financially while the war continues.