Trump–Zelensky Relations Sour Over Strikes on Russian Oil Refineries

Relations between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have deteriorated significantly in recent weeks, according to the US newspaper The Wall Street Journal. Disagreements sharpened after the two leaders met in New York in September, and were later deepened by differences over Ukraine's attacks on Russian energy infrastructure and over Washington's approach to peace talks aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine.

Dispute over oil refining

At the September meeting, Trump pressed Zelensky hard over strikes on Russian oil refineries. These attacks are a key part of Ukraine's strategy, intended to cut Russia's revenues and limit its ability to finance the war. Analysts estimate that Ukrainian drone strikes have affected 40–50% of Russia's refining capacity.

After that conversation, the US has reportedly urged Ukraine about six times to stop the attacks. Kyiv has said it would be ready for an energy ceasefire, but Russia has not accepted such an offer. Trump, for his part, has voiced concern that the strikes could push up energy prices and harm American consumers too.

Miami talks and the diesel deal

On 9 October, six hours of talks were held in Miami, where Trump's representatives Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff met Ukrainian and European officials to draft new proposals for ending the war. Ukrainian and European delegates were surprised by news that Trump was considering a deal on Russian diesel supplies.

The same day, Trump spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin for about 90 minutes, and shortly afterwards announced a diesel agreement. Several Republican members of Congress expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that such a deal would give Russia an economic benefit without requiring significant concessions from Moscow to end the war.

Concerns over support and Starlink

Ukrainian and European officials fear Washington could restrict intelligence sharing or weapons deliveries to Kyiv. US officials deny that any such threats have been made.

Concerns have also arisen in Ukraine about access to the Starlink satellite communications system. Ukrainian officials suggest Trump may have asked Elon Musk to limit the operation of Ukrainian military terminals, but this has not been confirmed. Republican Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick has warned that Congress could act if it were shown that the US government knowingly restricted Ukraine's military access.

Kyiv believes Washington should increase pressure on Russia rather than Ukraine, and warns that Moscow could use extra energy revenue to keep fighting. Reports have also emerged that Trump and Putin might meet in China, possibly during the APEC summit, but no such meeting has been confirmed.