Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that his country will resume attacks on Russian oil refineries, defying US President Donald Trump’s demand for a halt to strikes on energy infrastructure.
Ukraine targeted an oil refinery in Russia’s Ryazan region on Thursday, October 15, after Zelensky declared that Kyiv would no longer observe the proposed energy ceasefire. The attack reportedly triggered a fire at the facility southeast of Moscow.
Trump had announced an energy truce between Russia and Ukraine on October 11, claiming both sides had agreed to stop attacking energy facilities. However, Kyiv said Moscow continued targeting Ukrainian power stations and other critical infrastructure.
Zelensky Criticises Washington’s Approach
Zelensky said Ukraine had temporarily suspended attacks on Russian refineries to demonstrate its willingness to pursue peace. However, he argued that Russia’s continued bombardment made the arrangement unsustainable.
The Ukrainian president also expressed frustration over Washington’s recent decisions, including easing sanctions on Russian diesel supplies and reported disruptions affecting military communications and intelligence support.
He warned that these developments could weaken Ukraine’s defence capabilities while Russia continued its military campaign. Zelensky also questioned the US administration’s approach to relations with Moscow, saying Ukraine needed honesty from its international partners.
Trump had previously blamed Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries for contributing to rising diesel prices. He also called for Ukraine to elect a new president, further intensifying tensions between the two leaders.
Russian Attacks Intensify Energy Crisis
Meanwhile, Russian forces launched a major overnight drone assault on Ukraine, killing three people and injuring six others in the central Kirovohrad region, according to Ukrainian emergency officials.
The attacks also damaged energy infrastructure, including a gas extraction facility in the Poltava region. Ukrainian officials said the continued strikes had disrupted essential services and increased pressure on the country’s energy network.
Amid growing uncertainty over American support, Zelensky travelled to Brussels to meet European leaders and seek further assistance. Ukraine continues to depend heavily on Western military equipment, intelligence and satellite communications.
The latest refinery strike threatens to deepen tensions between Washington and Kyiv while raising fresh doubts about efforts to establish a lasting ceasefire.
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