Ukraine resumes strikes on Russian refineries as Zelenskiy says 'we're done' - Reuters

Ukraine has resumed air attacks on oil refineries in Russia, marking a shift in its military strategy after a period of reduced activity. The renewed strikes are intended to pressure Moscow in the context of ongoing peace negotiations, according to Ukrainian officials.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the decision reflects Ukraine’s “done” stance toward a self‑declared energy ceasefire that had been announced by U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy emphasized that the ceasefire was made without coordination between Kyiv and Moscow and therefore lacked legitimacy.

The Ukrainian government has framed the refinery attacks as a means of leveraging negotiations, noting that Russia continues to target Ukraine’s own energy infrastructure. By striking Russian fuel processing facilities, Kyiv aims to create a reciprocal impact on Moscow’s energy sector.

Peter Zalmayev, founder and director of the Eurasia Democracy Initiative, warned that any energy ceasefire presupposes mutual participation, describing the concept as a “dance” that requires both parties to be present. He questioned the validity of Trump’s unilateral announcement and highlighted the ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy assets.

The renewed operations come as both sides maintain a high level of military activity in the contested regions. Ukrainian officials have not disclosed the specific number of strikes or the extent of damage inflicted on the Russian refineries, while Russian authorities have yet to comment publicly on the latest attacks.