Diesel Deal

The U.S. and Russia have struck a deal that will reportedly involve Russia providing approximately 5 million tons of diesel for sale to the U.S. The deal was brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump and Russia President Vladimir Putin, and it comes amid soaring global fuel prices. It also represents a dramatic shift in U.S. policy, which has until now been narrowly focused on Russian sanctions aimed at cutting off Russia’s ability to fund its war against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his disappointment over the deal, calling it a “weak decision . . . by strong partners.”

Analysis and eternal perspective: War is ugly and always presents difficult decisions. For the most part, the U.S. has worked to isolate Russia in its war against Iran, even as that has meant losing access to Russian energy (a loss further complicated by the U.S. war in Iran and the conflict over the Strait of Hormuz). This week’s apparent reversal, at least as it pertains to diesel, is a sign that other pressures are now competing with that strategy. With the midterm elections less than three weeks away, it is likely there will be additional measures taken to try to bring prices down.

Whether you agree or disagree with the priorities reflected in this deal for diesel, there are at least two overarching principles that remain true:

1) God’s vengeance is aimed at the oppressor (Ps. 99:8; Rom. 12:9, Rom. 13:8)

2) God’s blessings (including the energy from the Earth) are meant to fuel your good work to bring Him glory (2 Cor. 9:8)

Let’s remain in prayer for the Ukrainian people as they continue to be assailed by Putin’s army. Let’s also remain in a posture of gratitude for the abundance we have been bestowed.