Zelensky: Trump Administration Threatened to End Intelligence Sharing Over Ukrainian Strikes on Oil Refineries

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with US public media outlet NPR that the administration of US President Donald Trump has threatened to cut off intelligence sharing with Ukraine. The condition, he said, is that Kyiv must stop attacking oil refineries on Russian territory. The claim points to growing tension between the two leaders while Russia's war against Ukraine continues.

Dispute over sanctions

Last Friday, Trump decided to ease sanctions on Russian diesel exports. Zelensky described the move as a "weak decision by strong partners". In his view, easing the sanctions will not lower diesel prices but will give the Kremlin extra funds to keep fighting. Trump reacted sharply, saying it was time for Ukraine to choose a new president who could conclude a peace deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Causes of the price rise

Zelensky also addressed Trump's claim that Ukraine is to blame for rising diesel prices. The Ukrainian president stressed that the real reason lies in the situation around Iran. "Most people in the world know why energy prices, including diesel, have gone up. Because of Hormuz. Yes, because of the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz," Zelensky said.

Strikes will continue

Zelensky explained that Ukraine targets Russian energy and logistics facilities to weaken the Kremlin's ability to continue the war. Ukraine wants the war to end, he said, but will not stop these attacks as long as Russia keeps striking Ukraine's energy infrastructure. He added that Putin does not respond to diplomacy. "He understands only force," the Ukrainian president said.

The outlet notes that tension between Zelensky and Trump has risen again after the US decision to buy fuel from Russia.