Zelenskyy explained why Ukraine is targeting Russian oil refineries and outlined the conditions for an energy ceasefire
Volodymyr Zelenskyy explained that Ukraine’s strikes on Russian oil refineries are a response to Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Crude oil, diesel, and fuel are inflicting significant losses on Russia, while Russian strikes are depriving Ukrainians of electricity.
The head of state made this statement in an interview with TSN anchor Alla Mazur.
Why is Ukraine targeting Russian oil refineries?
Zelenskyy commented on claims by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries. According to the Ukrainian leader, oil, diesel, and fuel are sensitive targets for Russia because they inflict significant losses on the country.
They destroy your electricity, and it hurts you… It hurts us a lot. But what hurts them?.. Oil, diesel, and fuel. Of course, for him (Russian President Putin – Ed.), this is very painful. He’s causing us a lot of pain. And we’re responding. In other words, this is a matter of justice,
– Zelenskyy explained.
The president also stated that Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries had not affected global oil prices, responding to Trump’s claims about the reasons for the rise in energy prices.
“They must respect Ukraine; even if they don’t say so publicly, they must respect our strength,”
– the head of state emphasized.
Under what conditions is Ukraine ready for an energy ceasefire?
Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is ready to cease strikes on Russian oil infrastructure if Russia stops attacking Ukraine’s energy sector. He emphasized that this principle of reciprocity could form the basis of an energy truce.
“If you want us to stop striking diesel and oil and gas infrastructure in Russia, it’s very simple. They don’t strike our power grid. And that’s fair – an energy truce. That’s how it can work,”
the president said.
As a reminder, Ukraine offered its partners several options, which could help counter Russian missile strikes.
The first is an energy truce. The second concerns access to Starlink on Russian territory. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is ready to show its partners specific locations where such access is needed to counter Russian ballistic missiles.
The third proposal is to provide Ukraine with additional missiles for the Patriot air defense systems if access to Starlink within Russia is not granted.