Zelensky says Ukraine ready to halt refinery strikes if Russia stops hitting energy grid

Kyiv, October 11 — President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine expressed readiness to cease attacks on Russian oil refineries if Russia ceased targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, following harsh criticism from US President Donald Trump. The conflict between the two leaders intensified following Trump's announcement of a deal on Friday, which involved Russia releasing significant amounts of diesel oil onto global markets in exchange for sanctions relief.

Zelensky dismissed the deal as "weak," arguing that it would incentivize Russia to continue its attacks on Ukraine. However, Trump contended that Ukraine's strikes were responsible for the recent surge in fuel prices, which have climbed since late February. This escalation began when joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran led Tehran to block the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil exports from the Gulf.

Zelensky emphasized the need for reciprocal de-escalation measures and real guarantees on X, stating, “Ukraine will be ready to stop striking Russian oil refineries if Russia stops striking our energy infrastructure.” Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country's energy infrastructure has been repeatedly targeted, disrupting power and heating for millions during the harsh winter months.

The tension between Zelensky and Trump arises weeks before the contentious US elections, where voter frustration over rising living costs is a significant issue.