Zelensky says Ukraine will pause strikes on Russia if Kremlin spares critical infrastructure

KYIV, Ukraine, September 15 ------ President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine is ready to halt its strikes on Russian territory if allies can secure a genuine Russian commitment not to hit Ukraine’s critical infrastructure. His comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump claimed in a social media post that Russia and Ukraine had agreed “not to hit” each other’s energy infrastructure, though Trump did not offer further details on the purported agreement.

Russia did not immediately comment on Trump’s claim. Previous efforts to broker even a partial ceasefire have repeatedly fallen apart within hours, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

Trump did not offer further details about the agreement, but it comes a day after the U.S. president called on Zelensky to stop targeting Russian oil refineries and other infrastructure used to produce and distribute diesel, claiming the attacks are causing a global shortage. Diesel prices have surged in the U.S., and high fuel costs associated with the Iran war have become a major issue for Trump’s party in upcoming congressional elections.

Ukraine still awaits concrete ceasefire plan from allies

He also claimed that the rise in the price of global diesel fuel “is mostly caused by the Russian/Ukraine war” and not Iran. But restricted shipments caused by the slowdown of oil flowing through the Strait of Hormuz and damaged refining systems in Russia are causing strains in the energy market.

In his post, Zelensky said Ukraine has proposed that partners help secure an agreement with Russia for a ceasefire. It’s not the first time Kyiv has floated the idea. “Every day, Ukrainian energy facilities, port infrastructure, logistics, even food and pharmaceutical warehouses become targets,” he said. “The war must end. And a de-escalation step regarding critical infrastructure could be a first step toward peace.” Zelensky said he “expects concrete proposals from our partners.”

Source: apnews.com