Zelenskyy rejects U.S.-Russia diesel deal as Ukraine hits refinery

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned a U.S.-Russia diesel deal and called Moscow's stance on peace talks a parody. Speaking at a European Union summit in Brussels on Friday, Mr. Zelenskyy stated that Russia does not want peace and warned that the diesel agreement will send money straight into Russian President Vladimir Putin's pocket.

Attack and Reactions

Ukraine struck a Russian oil refinery southeast of Moscow on Thursday, following Kyiv's decision to abandon an energy ceasefire announced by U.S. President Donald Trump. Two industry sources confirmed that the Ryazan oil refinery suspended operations at a primary crude distillation unit after the drone attack. Mr. Trump criticized the Ukrainian strikes for driving up oil prices and called the action a disgrace, while denying responsibility for a recent disruption to Ukraine's Starlink satellite service. French President Emmanuel Macron also criticized the U.S.-Russia deal as a negative signal that creates division.

Putin's Stance

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow is establishing a non-negotiable security zone inside Ukraine along the border to protect Russian regions following earlier Ukrainian incursions. Kremlin investment envoy Kirill Dmitriev mentioned that Russia and the U.S. are discussing joint projects like nuclear-powered data centres. The Kremlin also reported that Mr. Putin spoke with Pope Leo regarding vital supplies for the town of Oleshky.

Context

Energy infrastructure attacks and fuel agreements are closely tied to the broader economic pressures and geopolitical negotiations surrounding the ongoing conflict. International allies continue to navigate shifting diplomatic stances and support mechanisms as diplomatic efforts face repeated roadblocks.