Kremlin rejects Zelenskyy's call for energy ceasefire
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov (photo: Getty Images)
In Moscow, officials effectively rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's proposal for an energy ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Russian media.
Peskov cynically claimed that Russia is supposedly "working on peace in Ukraine, not a ceasefire."
"A stable, guaranteed, and long-term peace achieved through the signing of relevant documents is an absolute priority," the Kremlin spokesperson said.
Background
The day before, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is ready for an energy ceasefire if Russia is ready as well.
According to the head of state, Russian forces continue striking Ukraine's energy system, and the Defense Forces are fully justified in responding.
"If the Russians are ready for an energy ceasefire, we are ready. This is very important for people," he added.
Strikes on energy infrastructure
Russian forces have been attacking Ukraine's energy system for three consecutive years, starting in the fall of 2022. They carry out these attacks in an attempt to provoke a humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
A large number of energy facilities have been damaged, resulting in daily scheduled power outages nationwide.
Back in September, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that if Russia attempts to cause a blackout in Kyiv, it will receive a blackout in Moscow.
In March, Ukraine and Russia agreed to an energy ceasefire, but Russia repeatedly violated it by continuing to strike energy facilities in frontline regions.
