Zelensky says Ukraine ready for de-escalation steps if Russia stops targeting infrastructure

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on X that Ukraine is ready to work toward de-escalating the war and will soon discuss related diplomatic proposals with its partners. The statement came in response to remarks by US President Donald Trump, who said Russia has lost control of its oil refining industry and called on Moscow to end its "endless war" against Ukraine.

Dozens of proposals

Zelensky agreed with Trump that the war must be stopped, noting that Ukraine has sought peace since the first day of Russia's invasion. He said Ukraine has already put forward dozens of diplomatic proposals on how to end the war with dignity, guarantee security and prevent future Russian invasions, adding that dialogue with Trump and the US administration is ongoing.

A condition for de-escalation

Among the ideas under discussion are ways to move closer to peace, including a possible halt to Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy facilities, critical infrastructure and food exports. Zelensky said that if these targets were no longer attacked, it would lead to corresponding de-escalation steps from Ukraine's side, stressing that "decisions are possible."

He said Ukraine is ready to take such steps and plans to discuss the ideas with partners, including during meetings on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York this week. Zelensky also noted that modern technology now allows the aggressor to suffer losses as well, and that the strength of national leadership can and must ensure de-escalation, security and peace.

Meeting with Trump expected

According to sources, Zelensky is expected to meet Trump in person in the US on September 22. The two leaders agreed to the meeting, to take place on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, during a phone call on September 20. Axios reported that during that call, Trump urged Zelensky to have Ukraine stop striking Russian oil refineries.