Zelenskyy says Ukraine would halt refinery strikes if Russia stops energy attacks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Sunday that Kyiv is prepared to cease drone strikes on Russian oil refineries if Moscow agrees to halt its ongoing attacks against Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The proposal marks a potential shift in the tactical approach to the conflict, linking the targeting of Russian industrial facilities directly to the protection of Ukraine’s own power grid.

The announcement follows recent public pressure from United States President Donald Trump, who has urged the Ukrainian leadership to refrain from targeting Russian energy facilities. The strikes on refineries have been a significant component of Ukraine’s strategy to disrupt the Russian economy and limit the resources available to support the military campaign.

Russian energy infrastructure has been a frequent target for Ukrainian long-range drone strikes throughout the conflict. These operations have aimed to reduce Russia's capacity to process crude oil and generate export revenue, while simultaneously pressuring the Russian domestic fuel supply.

Conversely, Russian forces have consistently targeted Ukrainian power plants and electrical grids, leading to widespread energy shortages and rolling blackouts across the country. The Ukrainian government has characterized these strikes as an attempt to undermine civilian morale and cripple the nation's infrastructure during the winter months.

The proposal remains contingent on a mutual cessation of hostilities directed at energy sectors. As of now, there has been no formal response from the Kremlin regarding the offer to link the two sets of strikes. The situation continues to be a focal point of international diplomatic discussions regarding the trajectory of the war.