Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine is prepared to stop attacking Russian oil refineries if Moscow ends its strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, calling for any de-escalation agreement to be mutual and backed by firm guarantees.
Zelensky made the statement on Sunday, October 11, 2026, following renewed pressure from US President Donald Trump, who criticised Ukraine’s attacks on Russian refineries and demanded that Kyiv halt the operations.
The Ukrainian president maintained that his country was willing to stop strikes on energy facilities, but insisted that Russia must also end attacks on Ukraine’s power infrastructure. He argued that a one-sided suspension would leave Ukrainian facilities exposed to further Russian attacks.
The dispute has intensified following Trump’s announcement of an arrangement allowing Russian diesel supplies to enter global markets in exchange for sanctions relief. Zelensky criticised the move, warning that easing restrictions could provide Moscow with additional resources to sustain its military campaign.
Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukrainian energy facilities since launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022, damaging electricity generation and distribution networks. Ukraine, in response, has expanded drone attacks against Russian refineries and other energy infrastructure to disrupt fuel production and weaken Moscow’s war economy.
The latest exchange also highlights growing differences between Washington and Kyiv over how to end the conflict.
Zelensky said Ukraine remained willing to pursue de-escalation, but stressed that any agreement must include reciprocal commitments and credible safeguards.
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