By Islam El-Sakka
Ukraine has reportedly paused its strikes on Russian oil refineries following pressure from US President Donald Trump, even as Russia continues to target Ukrainian energy and civilian infrastructure. The pause, which could extend deeper into November, comes amid renewed efforts to revive US-backed peace talks.
Ukraine halts refinery strikes amid Trump pressure
Ukrainian military units carrying out long-range strikes were told in mid-October to halt the campaign against refineries once ongoing missions were completed, according to the Wall Street Journal. The unofficial pause is expected to last until after the US midterm elections. Relations between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have deteriorated sharply, with Trump blaming Ukrainian strikes for record-high diesel prices. Ukraine had previously refused to halt the strikes, calling them its only viable response to Russian bombardment. In response, Trump announced a deal to buy diesel from Moscow and waive sanctions authorized by a bill he signed in September.
Russian attacks continue despite pause
Russia has stepped up attacks on Ukrainian energy and civilian infrastructure. A Russian drone strike on the main railway station in Dnipro killed 14 people, hitting a platform crowded with passengers boarding a train. Ukrainian officials said the attack underscores Russia's continued aggression despite the pause in Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil facilities.
Humanitarian operation prepared for Oleshky
Russia and Ukraine announced on Thursday that demining operations around the Russian-held town of Oleshky in southern Ukraine have been completed, paving the way for a humanitarian convoy to deliver aid and allow residents to leave. The town, seized by Russian forces soon after the February 2022 invasion, has been marooned in a war zone. Both sides praised US First Lady Melania Trump for helping broker the localized truce that enabled the operation. The six-day ceasefire around Oleshky has brought rare stillness for civilians in nearby Kherson.
Putin warns of war with Europe
Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia is prepared for a potential war with Europe, though it does not want one. In a phone call with the leaders of Norway and Finland, Putin warned that if tensions escalate too far, there would be no winners. He also said Moscow does not want the Baltic Sea to face a situation similar to the Strait of Hormuz.
Russia extends diesel export ban
Russia will extend its diesel export ban until the end of the year while allowing some companies to ship fuel under a quota system to meet a new export commitment to the United States. The agreement followed a phone call between Putin and Trump earlier this month. The energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine announced alongside the deal has allowed Moscow to increase fuel production.
UK pledges £10bn support for Ukraine
British Chancellor John Healey announced an additional £10 billion support package for Ukraine in the Budget, drawing praise from President Zelensky. Former UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves urged the European Union to seize €210 billion of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's defence through 2029.
