The leadership of Ukraine is ready to consider stopping drone and missile strikes on Russian oil refineries (refineries). However, the main and mandatory condition for such a step is a mirror cessation of similar attacks by the Russian Federation on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. This was stated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, outlining Kyiv's position amid growing international pressure and the ongoing armed conflict in Europe.
Conditions for mutual de-escalation and Kyiv's position
According to the Ukrainian leader, the real and primary cause of the large-scale military crisis in Europe is aggression from Moscow. Nevertheless, Kyiv demonstrates a readiness for pragmatic steps to preserve critical infrastructure. Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that any real steps towards de-escalation must be exclusively mutual and backed by reliable guarantees. Informed sources in Ukrainian government circles confirm that the tactic of attacking Russian oil refining facilities will continue until a full and sustainable energy truce is reached.
International context and Washington's reaction
This statement came against the background of tough demands from the United States. In particular, US President Donald Trump publicly demanded that Kyiv immediately stop operations against Russian refineries. At the same time, the Washington administration criticizes the Ukrainian side for its unwillingness to compromise, while praising Moscow for concluding separate energy agreements, such as diesel deals. This position of Western partners creates additional diplomatic tension.
Contradictory data
There is a serious discrepancy between US demands and official Kyiv's position on stopping strikes against refineries. Washington insists on an unconditional and immediate halt to Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil depots and plants, arguing the need to stabilize global energy markets and reduce escalation. At the same time, the Ukrainian side insists exclusively on the principle of reciprocity, stating that a unilateral refusal of strikes would jeopardize the survival of the Ukrainian energy system ahead of the heating season while Russian bombardments of Ukrainian thermal power plants and substations continue.
Consequences for the energy market and prospects for truce
Experts note that linking refinery strikes to the security of Ukrainian energy transfers the military-technical dialogue to a new plane. If Moscow and Kyiv cannot reach a compromise mediated by international partners, the intensity of strikes on the fuel infrastructure of both countries will only increase. This will continue to have a volatile impact on global oil and petroleum product prices, causing concern among leading world powers.
