On October 15, 2026, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Russia has no plans to cease fire in the conflict with Ukraine. He also accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of throwing a "blatant challenge" to US President Donald Trump.
Lavrov's Statements on the Deal with the US
Lavrov claims that the US offered Russia a deal regarding the supply of diesel fuel, which Moscow allegedly accepted. However, he stated that Zelensky refused this deal, continuing attacks on Russian oil refineries. It is important to note that Trump announced a so-called energy truce on October 11, and since then Ukraine has not struck Russian refineries, while Russia continued its attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities.
European Leaders Urge Zelensky
According to the Financial Times, European leaders plan to urge Zelensky to soften his public criticism of Trump at the EU leaders' summit. They believe that Zelensky's harsh statements could worsen relations between Washington and Kiev. One source noted that while Zelensky's words may be true, "not everything needs to be voiced."
Support for Ukraine from Europe
Amid the escalating tensions between Ukraine and the US, European leaders expressed support for Ukraine's resumption of strikes on Russian oil refineries. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasized that Ukrainians should limit the revenue Russia can earn from exports. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo also stated that Ukraine has the right to defend itself by any means available. Baltic leaders also supported Ukraine's intentions, pointing out the importance of sanctions.
- Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs noted that sanctions are working.
- Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda emphasized that a cessation of attacks by Ukraine cannot be one-sided.
However, not all European leaders support strikes on Russian oil refineries. For instance, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev expressed opposition to attacks on any energy facilities.