Key facts
- US President Donald Trump has pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to stop strikes on Russian energy targets.
- Ties between the US and Ukraine have soured significantly in recent weeks.
- Zelenskiy has defied Trump's calls, vowing to continue attacks on Russian refineries.
- The US temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian fuel, a move Zelenskiy called "weak."
- SpaceX restricted Starlink services for Ukraine, reportedly due to a White House order.
- Trump suggested Russia has the upper hand and called for Ukraine to end the war.
US President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to halt strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, leading to a significant souring of bilateral ties. The dispute has raised concerns about a deeper rift between the two nations.
After warmer relations over the summer, ties have frayed in recent weeks. Trump has repeatedly called on Zelenskiy to stop targeting Russian refineries, even suggesting Ukraine should seek a new president. Zelenskiy, however, has vowed to continue the attacks, calling Trump's move to lift sanctions on Russian fuel "weak."
Further complicating matters, Ukraine reported that SpaceX restricted Starlink services, reportedly due to a White House order, hindering drone missions. Trump has also suggested Russia has the upper hand and called for Ukraine to end the war.