Trump announces Ukraine-Russia energy ceasefire, Zelenskiy cautious

In Short:
– Trump announced an immediate energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, awaiting details from Zelenskiy.
– Zelenskiy supports the ceasefire but demands real guarantees before halting attacks on Russian forces.

US President Donald Trump announced an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, effective immediately, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is awaiting details on.This announcement follows Trump’s pressure on Ukraine to cease attacks on Russian oil refineries, which he links to rising diesel prices impacting his party ahead of the midterm elections.

Ceasefire announcement

Relations between the two countries have deteriorated, with Trump stating Zelenskiy should stop attacks and contemplate new leadership.

Despite the announcement, Moscow has not commented.

Trump claimed both parties agreed to the ceasefire in a Truth Social post stating it should not be broken.

Zelenskiy confirmed Ukraine’s support for the ceasefire but seeks assurances from Russia.

He stated that a true agreement must have “real guarantees.”

Zelenskiy also reiterated his position that he would halt attacks only if Putin ceased strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure.

Trump proposed elections in Ukraine, suspended since the Russian invasion in 2022, contingent upon a ceasefire.

The Ukrainian leader indicated he would call elections if provided a two-month ceasefire.

Zelenskiy emphasized that the war’s roots lie solely with Russia.

Concerns have emerged that reduced diesel supply agreements may not lower global fuel prices effectively.

Criticism of Trump’s actions arose, including from fellow Republicans advocating for stricter sanctions against Russia.

Residents of Kyiv reacted negatively to Trump’s remarks about Ukrainian leadership changes, viewing them as interference.

Zelenskiy continues discussions with European leaders about air defence packages.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha is set to attend an upcoming EU meeting to discuss sanctions against Russia.