Zelenskyy: If Russia Strikes Energy Infrastructure, Ukraine Will Respond

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia will face consequences if it targets the country's energy infrastructure. In an interview on Telegram, Zelenskyy referenced a conversation he had with American journalist Fareed Zakaria during the 2026 Yalta European Strategy meeting. He stated that Ukraine is prepared to respond to any Russian strikes, including those on Ukraine's energy system.

Zelenskyy suggested that an energy truce could be a potential step towards the negotiation process, which would involve protecting the energy infrastructure of both countries from strikes. He emphasized that Ukraine has demonstrated its capability to respond to Russian actions in a dignified manner, without causing humanitarian catastrophes.

The president made it clear that Russia is fully aware of Ukraine's potential response if it strikes the energy system, particularly during the winter months when blackouts could occur. Zelenskyy also advocated for ongoing negotiations focused on ending the war, including measures such as unblocking the Black Sea and implementing an energy truce.

Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of continuing the humanitarian track, which includes prisoner exchanges and the return of civilians, journalists, and Ukrainian children. He called for the initiation of trilateral meetings and strong sanctions against Russia to deprive it of the ability to finance the war against Ukraine on a daily basis.

The Ukrainian leader urged for immediate decision-making regarding sanctions on Russia, emphasizing that imperfect decisions during a war are better than inaction. He called for the passing of the sanctions law in the US Congress, expressing hope that it would receive support from the Trump administration.