Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on March 30 that recent attacks on Russian territory are retaliatory actions. He emphasized that Ukraine’s military operations are not arbitrary but are responses to ongoing aggression.
Zelensky noted that following the onset of a global energy crisis, Ukraine received signals from certain partners regarding a potential reduction in responses targeting Russia’s oil and energy sectors. He asserted, “We do not intend to strike at Russian energy facilities unless Russia targets our infrastructure.”
During his recent tour of the Middle East, Zelensky expressed Ukraine’s willingness to discuss a ceasefire, including a complete cessation of hostilities and energy-related attacks. He stated, “We have proposed a full ceasefire, an energy ceasefire, and a ceasefire regarding food security. We are open to negotiations; if the Russians are prepared, they should propose a timeline for this matter.”
In addition, Zelensky addressed the issue of the Strait of Hormuz during discussions with regional leaders, highlighting its significance in the context of the global energy crisis. He remarked, “Middle Eastern countries know they can rely on our expertise in this area.”
Last week, Zelensky visited several Middle Eastern nations, including a meeting with King Abdullah II of Jordan on March 29 to explore potential security partnerships.
In a related development, the Russian government announced a ban on gasoline exports starting April 1, coinciding with Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refining facilities.
Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, various sites within Russia have been targeted by airstrikes, with oil refineries frequently being the focus of these attacks in 2024 and 2025. Ukrainian forces have also targeted Russian installations in occupied territories.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has confirmed most of these attacks, stating that Ukraine’s defense forces are systematically implementing measures aimed at diminishing the combat capabilities of Russian occupying forces and compelling Russia to cease its armed aggression against Ukraine.
President Zelensky has clarified that Ukraine's military actions against Russia are retaliatory. He expressed readiness for negotiations on ceasefire terms while discussing energy security with Middle Eastern leaders.