Oil Prices Rise Slightly, Market Wary of Trump's Pressure on Zelensky
Crude oil futures prices rose slightly on Monday (August 18, 2025), but remained within a narrow range. Market participants were monitoring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Washington following the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska, which touched on a potential end to the Russia-Ukraine war.
Market analyst Peter Cardillo of Spartan Capital noted that while a peace deal appears to be forming, Trump's insistence on Zelensky abandoning NATO membership ambitions and ceding territory could trigger a negative reaction in international markets. "Skepticism and caution may emerge," he said.
Energy markets see the potential for increased supply if the war ends, but uncertainty regarding the terms of the peace deal keeps oil prices vulnerable to volatility. Investors are also monitoring Western countries' stance on peace terms perceived as favorable to Russia.
WTI prices rose 0.5% to $63.10 per barrel, while Brent rose 0.4% to $66.09, amid lingering diplomatic tensions. Trump's decision and the outcome of his meeting with Zelensky at the White House will be important catalysts for price movements in the coming days. (alg)
Source: Newsmaker.id
