Key facts
- European leaders criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's pro-Russian actions at an Oct. 15 summit.
- Criticism included a deal for Russian diesel and restrictions on Ukraine's Starlink usage.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the U.S. moves a betrayal.
- EU officials expressed concern that the U.S. actions signal support for Russia's aggression.
European leaders on Oct. 15, 2026, voiced strong criticism of recent actions by the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump that appeared to favor Russia. At a summit in Brussels, officials from across the European Union lined up to condemn moves such as a deal to purchase Russian diesel and the sudden restriction of Starlink services for Ukraine's military. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described these developments as a betrayal, particularly the diesel agreement, which he felt prioritized American politics over Ukraine's interests. EU leaders echoed this sentiment, with Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro calling the deal "incoherent" and a "wrong signal" regarding support for Ukraine. The restrictions on Starlink were also met with dismay, with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen labeling them "deeply problematic" and a sign of excessive tech influence. Despite the sharp rebukes, many European leaders expressed a desire to maintain the transatlantic alliance and continue dialogue with the U.S., acknowledging past challenges that were overcome through engagement.