Zelenskyy accuses Russia of violating Trump’s energy ceasefire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of violating a proposed energy ceasefire announced by United States President Donald Trump, warning that Kyiv would respond if attacks on energy infrastructure continue.

Zelenskyy made the remarks on Monday, October 12, while addressing the Warsaw Security Forum through a video link. He urged Washington to intervene and ensure that Moscow respected the proposed arrangement.

The Ukrainian leader said there had already been Russian violations of the energy ceasefire, raising questions about whether the initiative would lead to a meaningful reduction in attacks on critical infrastructure.

“We are waiting for the details of the conditions between the Americans and Russians, and we are waiting to see what specific steps the Americans are ready to take,” Zelenskyy said.

He added that the proposed ceasefire could become an important step towards ending the war if the United States took action to ensure compliance.

The development followed Trump’s announcement on Sunday that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to an energy ceasefire. However, the announcement generated uncertainty because neither side had publicly confirmed that a fully agreed arrangement was in effect.

Zelenskyy initially said he had not been informed about the agreement, describing the announcement as unexpected. His latest comments suggest that Kyiv remains concerned about the terms of the proposal and whether it can prevent further attacks.

The Ukrainian president warned that his government would respond if Russia failed to agree to or respect an energy truce.

European leaders also expressed uncertainty about the status of the proposed arrangement.

French President Emmanuel Macron said he had not observed evidence of an energy ceasefire being implemented by Russia over the preceding 48 hours.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also questioned Moscow’s commitment to de-escalation and said he would encourage European partners to consider additional sanctions during discussions in Brussels.

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The disagreement comes as Russia and Ukraine continue to target each other’s energy infrastructure. Such attacks have threatened electricity supplies and other essential services while contributing to concerns about energy prices.

The conflict has also placed pressure on Western governments to balance diplomatic efforts with military and economic support for Ukraine.

Trump’s announcement came amid wider international tensions and recent changes in US policy towards Russia, including a temporary easing of certain American sanctions on Russian diesel. The move had prompted criticism from Kyiv and some European allies, who argued that easing restrictions could weaken pressure on Moscow.

The proposed energy ceasefire remains dependent on clear terms and compliance by the parties involved. Without confirmation that both governments have accepted and implemented the same conditions, the scope and effectiveness of the arrangement remain uncertain.

Zelenskyy’s latest remarks underline the continuing diplomatic challenges facing efforts to reduce hostilities, even as international leaders pursue possible measures to limit attacks on essential infrastructure.

As of Monday, October 12, the reports did not establish that a fully implemented energy ceasefire was in place.

(Al Jazeera)