Washington's surprise announcement of an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine has been met with confusion in Kyiv, silence from Moscow, and cautious backing from European capitals. The declaration, made by US President Donald Trump on Sunday, came as Ukrainian officials reported fresh Russian drone and missile attacks on energy infrastructure.
Trump wrote on Truth Social that an "ENERGY CEASEFIRE" was now in effect, claiming both parties had agreed. However, the Kremlin has not issued any confirmation, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was seeking details. "Ukraine supports the ceasefire, and it is important that Russia support it as well," he said in a statement.
Within hours, Ukrainian authorities reported strikes on multiple power plants, including one in Kyiv and another in Kharkiv, leading to blackouts and public anger. Zelensky noted that "Ukrainian skies have been infested with Russian 'shaheds' all day," referring to the Iranian-designed drones that Moscow has deployed extensively since its full-scale invasion began in 2022.
A fragile truce, and a controversial diesel deal
The energy ceasefire announcement came just two days after the White House eased sanctions on Russian diesel exports, a move that drew sharp criticism from European allies and Kyiv. Zelensky called the diesel decision a "weak choice," while several EU leaders said it would only embolden President Vladimir Putin.
European reactions to the ceasefire itself were more positive. Germany's foreign minister, Johann Wadephul, said Berlin continued to "fully support" Zelensky, adding that "Europe needs stability, and that means that we are very clearly continuing to stay by the side of Ukraine and its government." European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also voiced backing for the Ukrainian leader "as he leads the fight for his people's freedom."
Yet the contrast between support for the ceasefire and the widespread condemnation of the diesel deal underscores growing transatlantic friction. Seven US senators, including four Republicans, issued a statement on Sunday calling the diesel arrangement illegal. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, after a call with Zelensky, said the deal "is in direct opposition to the efforts of Ukraine, Canada and our allies to create peace and stability in Europe."
Trump, responding to the criticism, suggested it was "time for Ukraine to get a new president" who would settle the war. Zelensky fired back, saying that "it is up to our people to choose one or another leader," and challenged Putin to agree to a 60-day ceasefire to allow elections to take place in Ukraine.
The energy ceasefire, if it holds, could ease some of the pressure on Ukraine's grid, which has been systematically targeted by Russian forces since 2022. Kyiv has retaliated by striking Russian oil refineries, arguing that these facilities fund the war effort. The recent US diesel sanctions relief, however, has complicated that strategy, as it may increase Russian revenue.
For European observers, the episode highlights the fragility of any deal brokered without Moscow's explicit consent. As previous attempts at partial ceasefires have shown, agreements on paper do not always translate into reduced attacks on the ground.
The coming days will reveal whether Russia honours the energy ceasefire or continues its strikes. Meanwhile, European leaders are watching closely, aware that the continent's energy security and political stability are directly tied to the outcome of the war. As the EU confronts the limits of its support for Ukraine, the need for a credible and verifiable ceasefire has never been more urgent.
