Trump bears down on Zelensky as Russia keeps up attacks on Ukraine

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday an "energy ceasefire" between Russia and Ukraine, urging both sides to cease attacks on oil refineries. A White House official stated that if attacks on oil refineries ceased, a subsequent deal to halt attacks on power plants and energy grids could follow. However, Russia has not yet accepted any form of ceasefire, while Ukraine insists on a ban on attacks on power plants.

The proposal to cease attacks on refineries is one-sided, as Ukraine has only one oil refinery, which has been attacked multiple times by Russia, while Russia boasts a large network of refineries. The official added that Ukraine needs Russia to stop attacking its electricity grid. Despite Trump's announcement, Russia launched strikes on Ukrainian power plants shortly after, according to Ukrainian media.

Trump initially claimed the deal was a major breakthrough, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed it was news to him. The U.S. remains concerned that Ukraine's attacks on Russian refineries are affecting their relationship and potentially impacting U.S. gas prices. Presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have postponed their trip to Moscow until they receive clarity on the situation.