Zelensky accuses Putin of disrespecting Trump after latest attacks

Ukraine has accused Russia of disregarding the purported energy ceasefire initiated by former US President Donald Trump, following a fresh wave of deadly strikes across the country. These strikes hit vital power supplies and energy facilities, particularly in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Four people were killed in the city, and at least 600,000 people lost power as a result of significant damage to power facilities and equipment.

Additionally, power plants in the eastern Kharkiv region were targeted, causing further disruptions to electricity and heating infrastructure. Zelensky described Russia's actions as "entirely deliberate and demonstrative in its scale," emphasizing that Russia has never shown such blatant disrespect towards the US. The US leader's surprise announcement of the energy ceasefire two days ago enraged Ukraine's Western allies, as it came just days after a deal with heavily sanctioned Russia to supply diesel fuel.

Reports suggest that Washington threatened to withdraw intelligence-sharing with Kyiv, a reliance crucial for detecting incoming attacks. The possible disruption of Starlink internet terminals, which Ukrainian defense forces depend on for mission operations, has also raised concerns. Zelensky stated that Ukraine is willing to refrain from striking Russian energy infrastructure but accuses the Kremlin of squandering the opportunity for de-escalation in the conflict that has lasted nearly five years.