Zelensky outlines energy cease-fire conditions, seeks Patriot aid and warns of broader Russian threats after Trump meeting
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President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine would halt attacks on Russian oil facilities if Moscow stops striking Ukrainian energy infrastructure, called for a Patriot air-defence package and warned that Russia could expand attacks to other European states.
President Volodymyr Zelensky told reporters that Kyiv is prepared to stop targeting Russian oil refineries and diesel plants provided Moscow ends its strikes on Ukraine’s power grid, heating and water systems. He said the proposal would be forwarded to Washington for delivery to Moscow, noting that Russia’s response remains unclear.
Zelensky rejected claims that President Donald Trump had asked Ukraine to cease refinery attacks unilaterally, emphasizing that any halt must be reciprocal. "If you want us not to respond against diesel refineries, factories, energy, oil, and so on – of course we will not," he said, adding that the strikes are a response to ongoing Russian attacks.
The Ukrainian leader said Trump could facilitate a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the war. "I’m ready any time when all sides are ready," Zelensky said, stressing that dialogue is essential for any peace declaration.
Air-defence needs were also highlighted. Zelensky said Kyiv is seeking a "winter package" of Patriot interceptors from the United States while pursuing licences for domestic production. He noted that while no firm commitment has been received, Washington has not rejected the request.
Regarding leverage over Moscow, Zelensky referenced the sanctions law signed by Trump in September, suggesting it could be used if Russia refuses to negotiate. He warned that Russia’s battlefield setbacks may prompt the Kremlin to try to divide European unity by threatening neighboring states.
Citing recent drone activity in Moldova, Romania, Poland, Germany and the Nordic region, Zelensky said the risk of further attacks on countries bordering Russia or Belarus is high and urged those nations to respond firmly to any aggression.
Finally, Zelensky warned that Russia will continue to use its financial and commercial influence to undermine Western sanctions, citing the European Union’s recent removal of two Russian billionaires from its sanctions list as an example. He called for sustained unity and a values-based approach to counter Moscow’s economic tactics.
"We are ready for an energy ceasefire… if they will not attack our energy system." "I think that the most important thing President Trump can really do is organize a trilateral meeting where the leaders of all sides can meet and try to end the war." "When we speak with leaders about sensitive topics, they can say yes or they can say no. And it is a good step that nobody said no." "He’s not winning… the risk of an offensive by drones, missiles or a land operation is very high against other countries bordering Russia or Belarus." "It shows that the way to save unanimity is very difficult… Only values. Strong position."