Zelensky declared on X that Ukraine stands ready to halt hits on Russian refineries if Moscow immediately stops all strikes against Ukrainian energy sites, citing the ongoing barrage that has crippled power grids across the country.
The latest wave saw 1,450 aerial bombs, 75 missiles of various types, and more than 1,640 attack drones—roughly sixty percent jet‑powered—targeting civilian and energy infrastructure, according to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence. Earlier this week, a Russian strike on a medical facility in Kharkiv killed 23 people, including four children, and the same night a five‑story apartment block in Slovyansk collapsed, leaving dozens trapped beneath rubble.
Donald Trump, speaking from Washington, criticized Ukraine’s strikes as a cause for soaring fuel prices, framing the conflict as a strategic advantage for Moscow. Zelensky countered, calling Trump’s statement a “weak decision” that would embolden Russia to continue its assaults on Ukrainian energy assets.
The relentless attacks have left millions without power or heating, especially during the winter months. DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy provider, reported fresh outages in Kyiv last Sunday, and the national grid has been forced to cycle loads to keep the capital alive. A mother in Zaporizhzhia, who lost her home to a Russian strike, tells reporters she fears for her children’s safety if the assault on energy sites continues.
The next step will require Russia to supply verifiable de‑escalation guarantees by November 15, a deadline set by Ukrainian officials. If Moscow fails to comply, Zelensky has warned that Ukraine will resume strikes on Russian oil refineries, potentially escalating the conflict further. European leaders are slated to meet in Berlin next week to discuss the feasibility of Russia’s commitments, while the U.S. remains poised to adjust sanctions accordingly.