Ukraine to halt refinery strikes if Russia stops energy attacks

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Sunday that Ukraine is prepared to cease attacks on Russian oil refineries if Russia stops targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure. He emphasized that any reduction in hostilities must be mutual and supported by credible guarantees.

Zelenskyy reported that the death toll from a Russian strike on Zaporizhzhia had reached 23, including four children. Search and rescue operations were completed on Sunday morning. He also accused Russia of attacking civilian and energy infrastructure in multiple locations, including a medical facility in Kharkiv and residential areas in Sloviansk.

The Ukrainian president stated that Russia had launched approximately 1,450 aerial bombs, 75 missiles of various types, and over 1,640 attack drones during the week. He noted that around 60% of the drones used were jet-powered. These figures and attack accounts were provided by Zelenskyy and could not be independently verified.

Zelenskyy’s proposal comes amid pressure from Washington, where US President Donald Trump criticized Ukraine’s attacks on Russian oil refineries and called for a new Ukrainian president to negotiate an end to the war. Trump’s comments followed a dispute over an arrangement with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding Russian diesel exports and US restrictions on Russian diesel.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine would continue discussions with European leaders on Sunday to secure additional defense assistance, including air defense systems and ammunition for combat aircraft. He stated these efforts were aimed at protecting Ukraine’s population and interests.

Zelenskyy did not announce a ceasefire agreement. His offer to halt strikes on Russian oil refineries remains conditional on Moscow ceasing attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.