In brief
The Russian defence ministry launched strikes on six Ukrainian energy sites within hours of President Donald Trump announcing an energy ceasefire. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks, noting blackouts in Izyum and power cuts in several regions. Ukrainian officials said at least 33 people were injured. Russia’s foreign minister said the ceasefire would not apply in the face of continued attacks. European leaders showed mixed responses to the ceasefire, with some backing the move and others questioning its feasibility.
Russia struck six Ukrainian energy sites in the wake of President Donald Trump’s announcement of an energy ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday.
The attacks included strikes on gas stations, power grids and other infrastructure, resulting in multiple blackouts in the town of Izyum and power cuts in Kharkiv, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions, according to Ukraine’s state grid operator Ukrenergo.
Zelensky told Fox News that the strikes were proof that Russia was unwilling to respect the ceasefire, and he reported that 33 people were injured during the attacks across the country.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday dismissed the ceasefire, stating Ukraine did not deserve any respite from continued attacks.
European leaders gave varied responses. Britain and Canada expressed support for the ceasefire, while the European Union’s foreign policy chief noted the bloc would welcome a ceasefire that is credible and enforced by Russia. Estonia’s foreign minister criticised the ceasefire as ineffective.
The situation remains fluid as Ukraine continues to defend its energy infrastructure and Russian forces press on with integrated attacks that threaten civilian supply chains.
