Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will resume attacks on Russian oil refineries, rejecting a pause in strikes that U.S. President Donald Trump had urged as part of an energy ceasefire.
In an interview with the Financial Times published October 15, Zelensky said Ukraine had run out of patience after Russian forces continued striking Ukrainian energy infrastructure. “The block is out. We’re done,” he said, referring to the suspension of attacks on Russian refineries.
Ukraine had paused the strikes for several days following Trump’s announcement of an energy truce. However, Kyiv said Russia continued launching attacks against its energy facilities, undermining the effort to stop strikes on both sides.
Hours after Zelensky’s announcement, Russian officials reported a Ukrainian drone attack on an oil refinery in the Ryazan region, where a fire broke out. The facility is owned by Russian oil giant Rosneft. The attack marked a renewed escalation in the campaign against Russia’s energy infrastructure.
The dispute has also exposed growing tensions between Zelensky and Trump. Zelensky criticized Washington’s approach toward Moscow, including a deal involving Russian diesel, arguing that such arrangements could benefit Russia while its war against Ukraine continues.
Zelensky has also voiced concern over disruptions affecting U.S. intelligence support and military satellite communications, which Ukraine relies on to defend against Russian attacks.
The Trump administration has argued that its efforts are intended to reduce energy costs and encourage negotiations. But with Ukraine resuming refinery strikes and Russia continuing its attacks, the proposed energy truce appears to have broken down.
The latest developments raise further questions about the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations and whether diplomatic efforts can prevent another escalation.