Washington, October 11 (Daily Kiran) : Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the escalating fuel prices linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. During an interview on ABC’s “This Week,” he dismissed claims from U.S. President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk that he is responsible for the continuation of the Russia-Ukraine war.
Zelensky stated, “These individuals are unable to find a way to stop Putin. It’s easier to talk about prices and link them to Ukraine.” He emphasized that the conflict in the Middle East is causing rising fuel costs, a sentiment he believes is widely understood.
Trump has accused Ukraine of driving up American diesel prices through drone strikes on Russian refineries. In a clip aired on CNN, he remarked, “He wants to cause problems for our farmers and ranchers through diesel fuel. He must stop at all costs.”
In response, Zelensky proposed a mutual ceasefire to halt attacks on energy infrastructure. “We are ready for a ceasefire in the energy sector. Both sides should refrain from attacking energy facilities,” he said. He urged Trump to communicate to Russia that they should also refrain from targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Zelensky reported that this past week, Russia launched 196 attacks on Ukraine’s electricity sector and 20 on gas and oil facilities, resulting in the deaths of 153 civilians.
Later on Sunday, Trump announced on his social media platform, Truth Social, that an energy ceasefire had been implemented between Russia and Ukraine. “Both sides have agreed to this immediately,” he wrote.
Zelensky responded to this announcement, stating it was news to him, and noted that there was no confirmation from Moscow regarding Trump’s claims.
During the ABC interview, Zelensky also reacted to Trump’s call for new presidential elections in Ukraine, suggesting a ceasefire for the elections. “Please tell Putin to give us two months. We need a full ceasefire for 60 days, and we will hold elections,” he proposed.
Tensions remain high as both leaders navigate the complexities of the ongoing conflict and its implications for global energy markets.
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