Ukraine War Strains US and European Relations

Ukraine’s strikes on Russian oil refineries

Ukraine resumed strikes on Russian oil refineries after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv was abandoning an energy ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump, which neither Russia nor Ukraine had formally agreed to. Trump condemned the attacks as “a disgrace,” arguing that strikes on refineries reduce diesel supplies and contribute to higher global oil prices. The Kremlin also accused Ukraine of undermining US peace efforts by targeting refineries. The renewed attacks deepened tensions between Kyiv and Washington, particularly after Trump criticized Zelenskyy and said he was more difficult to deal with than Vladimir Putin. At the same time, Ukraine reported disruptions to Starlink satellite services, which affected drone operations and air defenses. European leaders expressed support for Zelenskyy, backed Ukraine’s right to defend itself, and promised continued pressure on Russia, including additional sanctions, while accusing Moscow of violating the proposed ceasefire.

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Collapse of the proposed energy ceasefire

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