Zelensky: Ukraine is ready to stop targeting Russian oil refineries on one condition

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced today, Sunday, his country's readiness to stop its attacks on Russian oil refineries, provided that Moscow stops its attacks on the energy infrastructure in Ukraine, stressing that any steps aimed at reducing the intensity of the conflict between the two countries must be based on the principle of reciprocity, and be accompanied by real guarantees that guarantee adherence to them.

Zelensky said, in a message posted on the Telegram application, that Ukraine is ready to take steps that would reduce the escalation, if Russia shows a similar willingness to stop targeting Ukrainian energy facilities, in light of the continuing military confrontations between the two sides and their effects on vital infrastructure.

The Ukrainian president added that he will continue, today, Sunday, to hold talks with European leaders regarding field developments and his country’s defense needs, noting that communications continue daily to discuss the provision of new packages of air defense systems, in addition to the necessary ammunition for combat aircraft, with the aim of strengthening Ukraine’s capabilities to confront Russian attacks.

Zelensky's statements come after a statement by US President Donald Trump, yesterday, Saturday, in which he called on Ukraine to replace its president, saying that it would be better for Zelensky to stop targeting Russian oil refineries.

In response to Trump's statements, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Ssibha confirmed, in a post on the X platform on Sunday, that Zelensky has the support of the Ukrainian people, stressing that the people alone have the right to decide the issue of his political leadership.

Zelensky's proposal to stop attacks on Russian refineries in exchange for stopping attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities comes within the framework of linking any possible calm to mutual commitments, while Kiev continues its contacts with its European partners regarding military support and air defense, amid continuing disagreements regarding ways to reduce escalation and end the war.