US President Donald Trump has declared an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, asserting that both nations have agreed to halt attacks on energy infrastructure. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy contends that he was not consulted about such an agreement and would only consent to it if Russia reciprocated by stopping its assaults.
Trump made the announcement via social media but did not provide specifics on the ceasefire’s commencement or its enforcement. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is prepared to honor the ceasefire if Russian President Vladimir Putin agrees to the same terms. The announcement comes amid tensions between Washington and Kyiv over Ukraine’s long-range strikes on Russian oil refineries, with Trump urging Ukraine to cease these attacks while Zelenskyy demands Moscow first end its strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities.
Despite Trump’s announcement, Zelenskyy reported ongoing Russian drone and airstrikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, including a thermal power station in Kharkiv. He also cited repeated attacks on gas and oil facilities across Ukraine. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for reciprocal commitments and security guarantees to ensure Russia adheres to any agreement.
Tensions have further escalated following Trump’s decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel exports, a move he argues could reduce fuel prices ahead of the US midterm elections. Zelenskyy criticized this decision, cautioning that it could bolster Russia’s war capabilities. Trump, in turn, criticized Zelenskyy for his unwillingness to make concessions, suggesting that Ukraine might need new leadership, to which Zelenskyy responded that leadership decisions are for the Ukrainian people to make.
The disagreement has raised concerns among Ukrainian officials and European allies regarding Washington’s strategy for ending the war. There are reports that the US might employ military procurement and economic incentives to pressure both Kyiv and Moscow into accepting a ceasefire. Ukraine maintains that its attacks on Russian oil facilities aim to weaken Moscow’s war financing, while Russia’s continued bombardment of Ukrainian cities and infrastructure underscores Kyiv’s demand for a balanced ceasefire.
Zelenskyy has been in discussions with European and international leaders to bolster support for Ukraine. Several European leaders have reiterated the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia and have called for an immediate cessation of attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The proposed ceasefire remains uncertain, with no definitive confirmation that Russia has agreed to its terms, highlighting the growing tensions between Washington and Kyiv over the conditions for ending the war and achieving lasting peace.