Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned Monday that Ukraine would retaliate if Russia refused to agree to an energy ceasefire announced by U.S. President Donald Trump. The warning came as Trump unveiled a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply 300,000 tonnes of diesel to the U.S. And global markets. Zelenskyy made the statement during a virtual address at the Warsaw Security Forum.
Zelenskyy said Russia had continued to strike Ukraine’s energy infrastructure despite Trump’s announcement. The U.S. President had previously claimed that Russia would immediately supply the diesel, with another 500,000 tonnes to follow. The deal was intended to lower fuel prices in the U.S. Ahead of the midterm elections.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from U.S. Lawmakers. Members of Congress from both parties have expressed concerns that the deal may be illegal. Some argue it violates sanctions against Russia. Observers in China suggest Beijing is likely to view the agreement as transactional and may wait to see its long-term impact before taking action.
The announcement also raised concerns in the Middle East. Trump has said the U.S. Is considering military support for Saudi Arabia in its conflict with Iran-backed Houthis following attacks on Riyadh’s airport. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s threat of retaliation highlights the growing tensions between Moscow and Kyiv over energy security.
The energy ceasefire proposal marks a significant shift in U.S. Foreign policy, with Trump unilaterally offering a truce. However, the lack of Russian agreement has left the situation uncertain. The deal remains a point of contention within the U.S. Government and among international observers.
