Ukraine Conditions Energy Ceasefire on US Verification of Russian Intent
· World · Hindustan Times, Reuters
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Monday that Ukraine is prepared to support a ceasefire targeting energy infrastructure only if the US can verify that Russia is genuinely committed to ending the war. This response follows a claim by US President Donald Trump that both nations had already agreed to halt strikes on energy sites. Zelenskiy clarified that Ukraine has not formally endorsed such an agreement, citing a lack of evidence regarding Russia's willingness to pursue a long-term peace. Russia has frequently targeted Ukrainian power and heating networks throughout the 4-1/2-year-long conflict, while Ukraine has retaliated by striking Russian oil industry facilities. The Ukrainian president emphasized that any potential accord must be reliable and have a tangible, lasting impact on civilian lives.
Why it matters
A potential energy ceasefire could provide critical relief to Ukrainian civilians facing power and heating shortages, but the lack of verified Russian intent leaves the country's energy infrastructure vulnerable to continued strikes.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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