Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of rejecting a proposed energy ceasefire, as Moscow continues its attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This development comes amid ongoing efforts to halt hostilities that have severely impacted the region’s energy facilities. Speaking in The Hague alongside Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten on October 28, Zelensky stated that while Ukraine supported the energy ceasefire proposal put forward by U.S. President Donald Trump, Russia has not reciprocated, and Ukraine will continue to defend its infrastructure against these attacks.
Despite the setback on the energy front, Zelensky highlighted progress in a U.S.-mediated humanitarian truce in the Russian-occupied area of Oleshky in the southern Kherson region. This truce, which took effect on October 27, is designed to facilitate humanitarian operations, including the evacuation of civilians from the territory. Zelensky expressed gratitude to Washington for its role in establishing the truce and hoped it would ensure safe evacuations.
Zelensky also mentioned upcoming trilateral peace negotiations involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia, set to occur in Abu Dhabi between November 6 and 10. These discussions are expected to address various critical issues, such as ceasefire arrangements, energy infrastructure security, maritime security, prisoner exchanges, and the return of Ukrainian children. While no direct meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin has been confirmed, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to discuss territorial matters directly with Russia’s leadership. He insisted that Ukraine must be involved in any decisions affecting its future.
Furthermore, Zelensky underscored the importance of including European countries in talks about Ukraine’s security guarantees and the broader security framework in Europe. He affirmed that Ukraine would continue to pursue peace discussions even if European representatives were absent from the initial meeting.
During the visit, the Netherlands announced a significant aid package for Ukraine, including €500 million in military assistance and €1.2 billion in non-military support over the next three years. Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten indicated that his government is collaborating with international partners to provide additional air-defense interceptors for Ukraine to bolster its defense capabilities ahead of another winter marked by potential Russian attacks.