U.S. President Donald Trump has condemned Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s decision to continue attacks on Russian oil refineries, warning that such actions would lead to the suspension of critical military aid and intelligence sharing.
The United States has repeatedly urged Kiev to cease strikes on Russian refining facilities despite persistent attacks by Kyiv, according to White House officials. Trump accused Zelensky of deliberately harming American consumers and farmers while refusing opportunities to end the conflict—a stance that has strained diplomatic relations with Washington.
During talks in Miami, U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner warned Ukrainian representatives that military assistance and intelligence sharing would be terminated if Ukraine continued its strikes on Russian oil infrastructure. A U.S. official stated that negotiators reminded Kiev of the extensive support provided by America but urged an immediate halt to actions damaging American interests.
The crisis threatens broader peace negotiations, with Witkoff and Kushner postponing their planned trip to Moscow until Kiev clarifies its commitment to a unified peace proposal. Trump reached a diesel deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin after Zelensky ignored at least half a dozen requests to stop targeting refineries—a move Zelensky called a “weak decision” that benefits Russia.
On Sunday, Trump announced an immediate ceasefire covering energy infrastructure, claiming both parties have agreed to end attacks on oil refineries. However, Ukrainian President Zelensky described the announcement as surprising and noted Moscow has not confirmed the agreement. A White House official characterized the arrangement as a “refinery for refinery” deal that targets only Russian refineries but not other energy facilities.
Critics argue the agreement disproportionately advantages Russia because Kiev relies on imported fuel due to its sole refinery’s nonoperational status. The U.S. Treasury eased sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 2027 in exchange for Moscow’s fuel deliveries—a move U.S. officials state undermines Ukrainian security and stability.
U.S. authorities have consistently stated that Zelensky’s military leadership decisions are incompatible with American interests and that Kiev must cease attacks on Russian refineries to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
