Ukraine war: Trump praises Russia and blocks EU aid to Kiev

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ended a unilateral ceasefire on energy infrastructure attacks announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, according to statements made by Zelensky to the Financial Times. The decision comes after Russia continued to strike Ukrainian energy facilities, despite the proposed pause. Zelensky stated that the pause on targeting Russian refineries was "done." The resumption of attacks occurred following a drone strike on a Russian oil refinery in Ryazan, southeast of Moscow. Trump criticized the move, calling it a "disgrace" during an interview with Newsmax. He argued that such actions drive up global energy prices and harm American interests. Trump also expressed frustration with Zelensky, stating that he finds him harder to work with compared to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump reiterated his belief that both sides desire an end to the conflict but emphasized that negotiations with Zelensky are more challenging. He suggested that Zelensky might be removed through elections, indicating dissatisfaction with his leadership. Trump further criticized Zelensky for not being as willing to compromise as Putin, despite claiming both parties want peace. Zelensky has previously accused Trump of undermining efforts to increase pressure on Russia by easing sanctions on Russian diesel exports and restricting the speed of the Starlink satellite network, which is crucial for Ukrainian drone operations and air defenses. According to Zelensky, Russia did not adhere to the ceasefire on energy infrastructure, prompting the resumption of attacks. The situation highlights growing tensions between Zelensky and Trump, who appears to be using the Ukraine issue to divert attention from domestic political challenges ahead of the U.S. midterm elections. Meanwhile, Zelensky has been engaging with European leaders, including meeting with NATO Chief Mark Rutte in Brussels and preparing for an EU summit. The recent attacks on Russian oil facilities have intensified the conflict, with Ukraine aiming to disrupt Moscow's primary export and reduce revenue for its military operations. In addition to the strikes on refineries, there have been reports of attacks on Russian technology infrastructure, including a strike on a Yandex data center in Vladimir Oblast, far from the Ukrainian border. Social media footage showed explosions and active air defense systems in response to these attacks. Ukrainian officials reported power outages in parts of the capital, Kyiv, following a Russian attack on critical energy infrastructure. The incident led to low water pressure in several areas and damage to private property, including a house struck by drone debris. These developments underscore the ongoing impact of the conflict on civilian life in Ukraine. The resumption of attacks on Russian energy infrastructure marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the conflict. With Trump openly criticizing Zelensky and expressing support for Russia, the international community faces uncertainty regarding the future course of the war and potential diplomatic solutions.