A deal to purchase diesel fuel from Russia has caused significant friction between Kyiv and Washington. Despite Ukraine’s efforts to achieve independence from US government support, reliance remains a risk. The dispute centers around concerns regarding Starlink access and potential targeting data falling into the wrong hands, alongside broader intelligence information. This situation raises questions about the impact of a potential shift in US policy under a future administration, particularly given previous statements made by Donald Trump. The reliance on services like Starlink highlights Ukraine’s vulnerability and the complexities of maintaining operational capacity without consistent US backing. The fuel deal underscores the persistent economic ties with Russia despite the ongoing conflict. These developments necessitate careful consideration of Ukraine’s strategic dependencies and potential consequences.