Zelensky Offers to Halt Strikes on Russian Refineries if Energy Attacks End

On October 10, 2026, a Russian aerial attack on Kharkiv injured four people, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine is willing to stop targeting Russian oil refineries if Russia ends its attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

This statement came after criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently announced a deal allowing Russia to sell more diesel globally in exchange for reducing sanctions. Zelensky described this deal as a “weak decision,” arguing it would encourage more Russian aggression.

Trump has blamed Ukraine’s strikes for rising fuel prices in the U.S., which have surged since earlier this year due to geopolitical tensions. Zelensky responded by emphasizing that any steps toward de-escalation must be mutual and supported by real guarantees.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, it has repeatedly attacked Ukrainian energy facilities, leaving millions without power and heating during winter. Recently, Ukraine’s largest private energy company, DTEK, announced new power outages in Kyiv.

The disagreement between Zelensky and Trump comes as the U.S. approaches a contentious election season, where rising living costs are a major concern for voters. Zelensky also mentioned that Ukraine could hold elections if Russia agrees to a 60-day ceasefire, countering Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine needs a new leader to end the conflict.

“It’s up to our society to choose our leaders,” Zelensky said, urging Trump’s team to ask Putin for the ceasefire needed to organize elections.