Zelensky Says Ukraine Will Resume Strikes on Russian Oil Facilities

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine will resume attacks on Russian oil infrastructure, signaling an end to a temporary suspension of strikes following pressure from the United States.

In an interview with the Financial Times published Thursday, Zelensky criticized Washington over what he described as a dangerous withdrawal of U.S. intelligence support and disruptions to SpaceX's Starlink satellite communications network.

“The block [on attacking refineries] is out. We’re done,” Zelensky said, confirming that Ukrainian forces would restart operations targeting Russian oil refineries.

His remarks follow growing tensions between Kyiv and Washington over President Donald Trump's approach to the Russia-Ukraine war, particularly his efforts to negotiate energy agreements with Moscow.

Trump announced an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine late last week, urging Kyiv to stop targeting Russian refineries amid concerns about rising global fuel prices.

The announcement followed a U.S. diesel supply agreement with Russia, with Trump accusing Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy facilities of contributing to higher fuel costs.

According to Zelensky, Ukraine suspended attacks on Russian refineries for three days to comply with Washington's demands. However, he claimed Russian forces continued launching attacks against Ukrainian targets throughout that period.

The Ukrainian leader also expressed frustration over reduced U.S. intelligence assistance, saying Ukrainian forces had temporarily lost access to early-warning information about incoming Russian missile strikes.

Meanwhile, disruptions to Starlink satellite internet services reportedly affected military communications and frontline operations across Ukraine.

Zelensky rejected suggestions that the Starlink slowdown resulted from technical problems, raising concerns about possible deliberate restrictions.

Trump previously denied that Washington had suspended intelligence sharing with Ukraine.

Separately, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk clarified that Starshield, the military-grade satellite communications system developed using Starlink technology, is owned and controlled by the U.S. government.

Musk said decisions regarding potential speed restrictions on Starshield services ultimately rest with Washington rather than SpaceX.

Zelensky also criticized Trump's willingness to pursue business agreements with Moscow and questioned the U.S. president's relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine's decision to resume strikes on Russian oil infrastructure could further complicate U.S.-led diplomatic efforts while increasing uncertainty surrounding energy supplies and the ongoing conflict.