Zelenskyy vows to keep drone strikes on Russian oil refineries despite Trump criticism

Why This Matters

• Drone strikes on Russian oil refineries target a key source of revenue and fuel for Russia's war effort.
• Open disagreement between Kyiv and Washington over war strategy could affect the level of Western support for Ukraine.
• Continued strikes risk wider disruption to global energy markets.

Background

Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine has increasingly used long-range drones to strike targets deep inside Russian territory. Oil infrastructure has been a recurring target, with the aim of degrading Russia's military logistics and its war economy. The tactic has drawn mixed reactions from Western allies, who have at times worried about escalation and the impact on energy prices, even as they back Ukraine's right to defend itself.

Key Perspectives

Zelenskyy: Maintains the strikes are necessary to weaken Russia's ability to sustain and finance the war. Trump administration: Has criticised the strikes, signalling a preference for de-escalation and a faster end to hostilities. Critics and skeptics: Warn that continued strikes could escalate the conflict and unsettle global oil prices, which had been volatile during the war.

What to Watch

• Whether attacks on Russian oil refineries continue in the coming days.
• Any further public statements from Trump on the strikes and US policy toward Ukraine.
• Reactions from European allies and any movement in oil prices linked to the campaign.