Zelensky Signals Willingness to Halt Strikes on Russian Refineries if Moscow Ceases Attacks on Ukraine’s Energy Sector

Ukraine's Readiness for Conflict De-escalation

According to 5 канал: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed a willingness to stop attacks on Russian oil refineries, provided that Russia ends its strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Zelensky emphasized that Russia is the sole cause of the war in Europe and stressed that halting attacks on energy facilities is possible now, but President Putin refuses to do so.

He also highlighted that any steps toward de-escalation must be reciprocal and backed by genuine guarantees.

Details on Attacks Against Civilian Infrastructure

President Zelensky shared recent data on Russia’s assaults targeting Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure over the past week. During this period, Russia launched approximately:

• 1,450 aerial bombs,
• 75 missiles of various types,
• and over 1,640 attack drones, about 60% of which are rocket-powered.

Zelensky remarked:

“These attacks are ongoing without pause. In just one week, Russian forces dropped roughly 1,450 bombs, fired 75 missiles, and deployed more than 1,640 strike drones.”

Meanwhile, Ukraine continues daily coordination with international allies to strengthen its defense capabilities. Zelensky stated:

“We are advancing talks with European leaders today. On virtually every level, we are collaborating to secure additional defense support, focusing especially on air defense systems and ammunition for combat aviation. This is all aimed at safeguarding Ukrainian lives and national interests.”

In a related development, former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly agreed to a deal with Russia for diesel fuel supplies after Ukraine refused to stop its strikes on Russian refineries. Trump’s special representatives, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, informed Ukrainian officials about this agreement during negotiations. Allegedly, they warned the Ukrainian delegation that continued non-compliance could result in losing access to U.S. intelligence.

The situation remains highly tense, underscoring the complex link between military actions and diplomatic efforts. Ukraine is actively pursuing ways to secure its safety and rebuild its energy infrastructure amid persistent external aggression. The country’s openness to de-escalation reflects a desire to find a peaceful resolution, but the lack of reciprocal willingness from Russia complicates progress. Diplomatic engagement with global partners continues to play a crucial role in enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

In light of Zelensky's recent statements, it's important to consider the broader implications of Ukraine's potential de-escalation strategy. For a deeper understanding of Ukraine's readiness to halt strikes on Russian critical infrastructure under certain conditions, explore further details in our related article regarding reciprocal steps from Russia.