Trump urges Zelenskyy to stop strikes on Russian refineries

US President Donald Trump has urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to avoid targeting Russia’s diesel refineries, warning that continued attacks on fuel facilities could worsen shortages in global energy markets.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump said Ukraine should focus its military operations on other targets instead of disrupting Russia’s diesel production. He argued that attacks on refineries were reducing the availability of transportation fuel and adding pressure to an already strained international market.

Trump said the issue had been raised directly with Ukrainian officials, stressing that Washington did not want Kyiv to strike Russian refining facilities. He maintained that Ukraine had other military targets it could pursue without affecting global fuel supplies.

The remarks come as Ukraine has stepped up drone attacks against Russian energy and industrial sites. Ukrainian authorities have reported strikes on several facilities supporting Russia’s military operations, including oil and refining infrastructure in different parts of the country.

Recent attacks have disrupted Russia’s ability to convert crude oil into diesel and other transport fuels. Moscow has responded by maintaining restrictions on diesel exports, a move aimed at protecting domestic supplies amid continuing pressure on its refining sector.

The developments have added to concerns over international fuel markets, which are already facing uncertainty because of wider geopolitical tensions. Disruptions linked to conflicts and attacks on energy infrastructure have raised fears that further supply interruptions could push fuel prices higher.

Kyiv has yet to issue an immediate response to Trump’s latest remarks. The Ukrainian government has repeatedly defended strikes on Russian energy facilities as part of its efforts to weaken Moscow’s military capabilities.