Written by: Karim Hammam
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Russia launched 76 attacks targeting Ukraine's oil, gas, and energy sectors over the past week. Zelensky pointed out that these attacks occurred despite the US President's announcement of an energy ceasefire a week ago.
Targeting Energy Infrastructure
The recent Russian strikes included attacks on substations in the Vinnytsia, Zhytomyr, Khmelnytskyi, and Odesa regions. These attacks led to power outages for tens of thousands of residents, while repair crews and energy workers work around the clock to restore electricity supplies.
Ukraine's Stance on the Ceasefire
Zelensky clarified that he held talks with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney regarding the announcement of the energy ceasefire. He stressed that Ukraine supports the ceasefire and is awaiting details from the American side, emphasizing the importance of Russia committing to these steps to ensure lasting peace and protect lives.
Criticism of Sanctions Relief
Zelensky criticized any trend toward easing sanctions against Russia without a clear and permanent de-escalation agreement, considering that this gives Russia an opportunity to continue the war and inflict more damage on the world. These developments come at a time when Ukraine resumed its attacks on Russian refineries after the announcement of the expiration of the energy sector ceasefire.
