US President Donald Trump has declared an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, stating that both nations have agreed to halt attacks on energy infrastructure. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed surprise at the announcement, noting he was not consulted about the agreement and would only consider it if Russia stopped its assaults.
Trump shared the news via a social media post but did not specify when the ceasefire would commence or how it would be enforced. Zelenskyy indicated that Ukraine is prepared to comply, provided Russian President Vladimir Putin consents to the same conditions. The announcement follows tensions between Washington and Kyiv over Ukrainian long-range strikes on Russian oil refineries. Trump had urged Ukraine to cease these attacks, whereas Zelenskyy insisted that any agreement must include Russia ceasing its strikes on Ukrainian facilities and demanded security guarantees to ensure compliance.
Despite Trump’s announcement, Zelenskyy reported ongoing Russian drone and airstrikes on Ukrainian energy sites, including a thermal power station in Kharkiv. Additionally, Ukrainian gas and oil facilities continue to face repeated strikes. The situation has been further complicated by Trump’s decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel exports, a move he argues could lower fuel prices ahead of the US midterm elections. Zelenskyy criticized this decision, warning it could bolster Russia’s war efforts financially.
The disagreement has led to Trump criticizing Zelenskyy for his unwillingness to concede, suggesting Ukraine needs new leadership. In response, Zelenskyy asserted that the choice of leadership remains with the Ukrainian people and mentioned he would consider elections if Russia agreed to a comprehensive 60-day ceasefire.
This dispute has raised alarms among Ukrainian officials and European allies regarding Washington’s approach to ending the conflict. There are reports suggesting the US might use military procurement and economic incentives to pressure both Kyiv and Moscow into a ceasefire. Ukraine maintains that its operations against Russian oil facilities aim to weaken Moscow’s capacity to finance the war, while Russia’s ongoing attacks reinforce Ukraine’s demand for a fair ceasefire.
Zelenskyy has been engaging with European and international leaders to bolster support for Ukraine. Several European leaders have emphasized the need to maintain pressure on Russia and have called for an immediate cessation of attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The proposed ceasefire remains uncertain, with no clear confirmation of Russia’s agreement to its terms, highlighting the growing tension between Washington and Kyiv over the conditions required for a lasting peace.