Zelenskyy says Ukraine ready for de-escalation if Russia stops strikes on energy infrastructure

Zelenskyy made the remarks on Monday in response to US President Donald Trump, who earlier called for an end to the war and said a large number of Russian refineries had been damaged and were temporarily out of operation.

“This Russian war against Ukraine and against common sense really must be ended,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.

He said Ukraine had put forward dozens of diplomatic proposals aimed at ending the war and ensuring security, adding that ideas were now under consideration that could bring peace closer, “starting with decisive de-escalation steps.”

“Ukraine is ready for such steps if our energy sector, critical infrastructure, and food exports cease to be targets for Russia,” Zelenskyy said.

He added that Ukraine was prepared to discuss the issue with its partners on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

“It will no longer be the case that only the country under attack suffers. The nature of war today is such that the aggressor also suffers losses. Technology makes this possible,” Zelenskyy said.

His comments come amid renewed US pressure over Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries.

Axios reported earlier on Monday that Trump had repeatedly asked Zelenskyy during a phone call to halt the strikes, arguing that damage to Russian refineries was contributing to diesel shortages and higher prices. Trump said “the word diesel came up many times” during the conversation.

Hours later, Trump wrote on Truth Social that “a large number” of Russian refineries had been “blown up” and were, at least temporarily, out of commission.

Zelenskyy and Trump have agreed to meet in New York during the UN General Assembly.