Russia Strikes Ukrainian Power Stations Despite Announced Energy Ceasefire
Russia struck Ukrainian power stations despite US President Donald Trump announcing an energy ceasefire, as reports emerged that Washington threatened to halt military aid to Kyiv.
Despite US President Donald Trump's announcement of an "energy ceasefire" between Russia and Ukraine, Russian forces launched strikes against power stations in Ukraine. Concurrently, the Financial Times reported that the Trump administration threatened to halt military aid to Ukraine if it does not cease attacks on Russian energy infrastructure.
Pressure on Kyiv and European Allies
According to European officials cited in the report, Washington is strongly urging European nations and Kyiv to halt strikes on oil refineries deep within Russian territory. The American message reportedly included threats to cut off intelligence sharing and suspend US arms sales to Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded skeptically to the announcements, noting that the reported agreement came as news to him.
Calls for New Leadership and Reciprocity
President Trump recently suggested that Ukraine should find a "new president," criticizing Zelensky over disagreements surrounding energy policies and fuel prices. In response, Zelensky stated in an interview that while he respects the United States, the Ukrainian people alone will decide who leads their nation. Zelensky further emphasized that Ukraine would be prepared to halt strikes on Russian oil infrastructure only if Moscow reciprocates by stopping attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities.
"Ukraine will be ready to halt attacks on Russian oil refineries if Russia stops attacking our energy infrastructure. Energy infrastructure attacks can stop today, but Putin is not interested in this," Zelensky stated.