Ukraine has signalled its willingness to pause attacks on Russian energy infrastructure if Moscow agrees to stop targeting Ukraine’s power and other critical facilities. President Volodymyr Zelensky said any such arrangement must be mutual, reliable and capable of lasting beyond Russia’s upcoming elections.
What Did Zelensky Say About The Proposed Ceasefire?
Zelensky said Ukraine could suspend strikes against Russia’s electricity and energy facilities, critical infrastructure and food supply routes if Russia takes the same step. He described the move as a possible starting point for wider efforts to reduce tensions and eventually end the war.
However, the Ukrainian president stressed that any limited ceasefire would need to be dependable rather than a short-term pause.
Trump Says Russia And Ukraine Agreed To Halt Energy Strikes
Earlier, US President Donald Trump said both countries had agreed to stop attacks on energy infrastructure. Trump said Ukraine had agreed not to target Russian energy facilities, while Russia had also agreed to refrain from similar attacks. The Kremlin welcomed Trump’s call for Kyiv to stop attacking Russian fuel-producing facilities.Â
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said countries with influence over Ukraine could encourage Kyiv to show greater flexibility as part of the settlement process.
Russia Faces Pressure Over Fuel Supplies
The discussion over energy strikes comes as Russia takes measures to protect its domestic fuel market. The Russian government has imposed a temporary restriction on exports of gasoline, diesel, marine fuel and gas oil.
Trump had earlier urged Zelensky to stop attacks on Russian oil refineries, arguing that the strikes were contributing to diesel shortages.
Zelensky Calls For Broader Peace Efforts
While supporting a possible halt to attacks on critical infrastructure, Zelensky said the broader objective remains ending the Russia-Ukraine war. He indicated that an agreement covering energy and other essential infrastructure could serve as an initial de-escalatory measure and potentially create space for further negotiations.
