Putin Rejects Ceasefire as Ukraine Targets Russian Oil Facilities

Reuters cited three sources close to the Kremlin saying President Vladimir Putin has no intention to negotiate a cease‑fire with Ukraine, viewing full control of the Donbas as essential and hinting the conflict could intensify in the coming months. The Kremlin says Russia remains open to a peace solution but retains the capability to continue military actions, while Western analysts warn Moscow might test NATO’s collective defence with limited attacks.

Ukraine has stepped up drone operations against Russian energy sites, striking refineries and oil depots in Tver and the Stavropol region and igniting two tankers in the Azov Sea. The attacks have sparked widespread fuel shortages and rationing inside Russia. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the raids as “remote sanctions” in response to Moscow’s refusal to end the war. Russian defence officials report shooting down dozens of Ukrainian drones and missiles, while Kyiv claims a number of weapons still reached their targets. The United States, represented by President Donald Trump, pledged to permit Ukraine to produce Patriot air‑defence systems, adding another dimension to the escalating confrontations.