- Zelensky Seeks Clarification as Moscow Remains Silent; European Allies Back Truce Call While Criticising US Easing of Russian Diesel Sanctions
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump’s announcement of an immediate “energy ceasefire” between Russia and Ukraine sparked uncertainty on Sunday, with Kyiv seeking clarification, Moscow yet to confirm its agreement, and Western allies expressing support for efforts to halt attacks on critical energy infrastructure.
The proposed truce appeared fragile from the outset, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported fresh Russian strikes on multiple Ukrainian power facilities, including installations in Kyiv and Kharkiv, resulting in electricity outages.
“Effective immediately, there is an ENERGY CEASEFIRE in the War between Russia and Ukraine,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “Both parties have agreed. Do not break it!”
Zelensky said Ukraine supported the proposed ceasefire but stressed that Russia must also commit to observing it. He indicated that Kyiv was seeking further details about the announcement, while Moscow had not publicly confirmed its acceptance.
Later on Sunday, Zelensky reported attacks on Ukrainian power stations and said Russian drones, commonly known as Shaheds, had been operating extensively in Ukrainian airspace throughout the day.
Since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukrainian energy infrastructure, contributing to electricity and heating shortages. Ukraine, in turn, has attacked Russian oil refineries and other energy facilities, arguing that Moscow’s energy revenues help finance its military campaign.
Energy Truce Amid Dispute Over Russian Diesel Sanctions
Trump’s announcement came two days after he declared a temporary easing of US sanctions affecting Russian diesel supplies, a move that drew criticism from Kyiv and several European allies, who warned that easing pressure on Moscow could undermine efforts to secure peace.
Zelensky described the decision as a “weak decision,” while European leaders called for continued pressure on Russia.
Seven US senators, including four Republicans, also criticised the diesel-related decision in a statement released on Sunday, arguing that it was illegal.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, following a telephone conversation with Zelensky, said the decision ran counter to efforts by Ukraine, Canada and their allies to promote peace and stability in Europe.
The dispute has added to tensions between Trump and Zelensky. On Saturday, Trump suggested that Ukraine needed a new president who could bring the war to an end.
Zelensky rejected the implication that Ukraine’s leadership should be determined externally, telling ABC News that the country’s future leadership was a matter for its citizens.
“It’s up to our society, up to our people to choose one or another leader,” he said.
Zelensky also linked rising fuel prices to the conflict in the Middle East and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important route for global energy supplies.
European Allies Express Support for Ukraine
Despite disagreements over the US approach to Russian energy sanctions, several of Ukraine’s Western partners welcomed Trump’s call for an energy ceasefire and urged Moscow to honour the proposed arrangement.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul reaffirmed Berlin’s support for Zelensky and the Ukrainian government, emphasising the importance of stability in Europe.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also expressed support for the Ukrainian leader as he continued to defend his country.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham similarly welcomed Trump’s call for an immediate and sustained halt to attacks on energy infrastructure.
The support highlighted a distinction among Ukraine’s allies: while many welcomed efforts to protect critical infrastructure and reduce civilian hardship, the easing of restrictions on Russian energy supplies remained contentious.
Ukrainians Reject External Pressure Over Leadership
In Kyiv, some residents voiced concern over Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine should choose a new president.
“I believe our president is the best, and Americans should think about their own president,” said 40-year-old Olesia Goncharuk, speaking to Agence France-Presse (AFP).
“We Ukrainians decide our own fate and our own freedom, and we are free people,” she added.
The proposed energy ceasefire could offer an opportunity to reduce damage to power facilities and ease pressure on civilians as the war continues. However, with Russia yet to confirm its participation and reports of fresh attacks emerging from Ukraine, the prospects for an effective and sustained halt to strikes remained uncertain on Sunday.
BY: The Times Union – AFP
