Oil Prices Slip as Markets Weigh Possible Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

PUKMEDIA

Oil prices.

Oil prices fell on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, as markets assessed the prospect of potential three-way negotiations involving Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington aimed at ending the war in Ukraine — a development that could see sanctions on Russian crude eased.

According to Reuters, Brent crude futures dropped 53 cents, or 0.8%, to $66.07 a barrel by 05:45 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for September delivery, due to expire on Wednesday, fell 44 cents, or 0.7%, to $62.98 per barrel. The more active October WTI contract declined 55 cents, or 0.9%, to $62.15. Both benchmarks had settled around 1% higher in the previous session.

The movement followed talks at the White House on Monday between U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, and European allies. Trump later announced he had spoken directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin and had begun preparations for a summit bringing together the three leaders.

Zelenskiy described his discussions with Trump as “very good,” confirming that they focused on Ukraine’s need for U.S. security guarantees. Trump said Washington would provide such assurances, although details remain unclear.

While Trump has signalled urgency in seeking to end Europe’s deadliest war in eight decades, Kyiv and its partners remain wary that Washington could press for a deal aligned with Moscow’s terms.



PUKMEDIA