Zelensky warns Russia of retaliatory strikes on energy sites if winter attacks continue

President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the United Nations General Assembly in New York, saying Ukraine could be forced to hit Russian energy sites this winter if Russia persists in attacking Ukraine’s power grid and heating systems. He noted that the coming winter would be especially hard for Ukrainians, but warned that Moscow would also face consequences.

"Ukrainians understand that this winter may be very hard for us, but in response, we will have no other choice but to make it painful for Russia as well," Zelensky said.

Zelensky framed the threat as conditional retaliation, emphasizing that Ukraine’s strikes aim at Russia’s ability to fund its war rather than at oil or ports per se. He reiterated that Ukraine is prepared to halt attacks on Russian refineries if Moscow stops targeting Ukrainian electricity, heating and water infrastructure, a stance he said was discussed with the U.S. president.

The president also referenced the historic metaphor of “General Winter,” traditionally used to describe harsh weather that has aided Russia in past conflicts, and suggested the climate could now work against Moscow if civilian energy facilities continue to be targeted. He called for a reciprocal energy cease-fire, insisting any pause must cover all types of attacks on both sides and include clear lists of protected sites and monitoring mechanisms.

Russia has repeatedly struck Ukrainian energy infrastructure during cold periods, while Ukraine has increased its capability to strike Russian refineries and storage facilities, which it deems legitimate military targets because they support Russian forces and generate revenue for the Kremlin.