Putin Announces 30-Day Halt on Ukraine Energy Target Attacks
President Putin has agreed to a 30-day suspension of attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure after discussions with President Trump. This decision does not include a full ceasefire due to concerns over Ukrainian military mobilization. International leaders, particularly from Europe, continue to support Ukraine and advocate for a comprehensive ceasefire.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a 30-day halt to attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure following a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump. The Kremlin’s statement announced that strikes against energy facilities would cease, but Putin did not accept the broader US-backed ceasefire that Ukraine is prepared to implement.
Putin raised concerns that a complete ceasefire might allow Ukraine to mobilize troops and rearm during a hiatus in the ongoing conflict. The Kremlin emphasized that halting foreign military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine is essential for managing the conflict and pursuing diplomatic resolutions.
In joint agreements, Trump and Putin have proposed initiating discussions about a potential maritime truce and broader ceasefire. These dialogues are set to commence immediately, with a focus on peace initiatives related to energy and infrastructure. Trump characterized the conversation as “very good and productive” on his social media platform.
Ukraine may hesitate to agree to a pause in its own attacks against Russian energy assets. Russian assaults on infrastructure have left many Ukrainians without electricity and other essential services; significant strikes have occurred involving hundreds of drones. Ukrainian operations against Russian refineries and oil facilities have also intensified since January, disrupting a notable portion of Russia’s refining capabilities.
Experts suggest Ukraine’s reluctance stems from fears that Russia will leverage any ceasefire to gain territorial advantages, echoing concerns raised by officials regarding the limited focus on energy attacks. The Kremlin’s requirement for a cessation of Ukrainian mobilization and rearming serves as a critical hurdle in negotiations for long-term peace.
European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron, reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine’s support. They indicated that efforts to achieve a complete ceasefire are urgent and emphasized ongoing military assistance in Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression.
The recent announcement by President Putin to cease attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure for 30 days highlights the complexity of the ongoing conflict. The limited scope of this truce, along with concerns about the potential for Ukraine to regroup, underscores the fragile nature of negotiations. Meanwhile, European leaders continue to express unwavering support for Ukraine, stressing the need for a comprehensive ceasefire to foster long-term peace.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
