A deal between Moscow and Washington over exports of Russian diesel and fresh U.S. criticism of Ukraine's leader mark important political victories for the Kremlin, reversing some of the sanctions for its full-scale invasion of its neighbor.

While the size of Russia's diesel exports is relatively small and unlikely to significantly impact prices, the revenue will help Moscow replenish its war coffers and - more importantly - undermine efforts by Kyiv and its European allies to put up a united front against President Vladimir Putin.

Along with President Donald Trump suggesting that Ukraine should get a new leader to replace President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the developments strengthen the Kremlin's hand at a critical junction of the war, amid relentless attacks by Russia on energy systems and other vital infrastructure.