Ukraine pauses attacks on Russian oil refineries after US pressure

Ukraine has paused its attacks on Russian oil refineries following pressure from the United States, according to reports. The unofficial halt reportedly began early last week and is expected to last at least until the U.S. midterm elections on Tuesday. The pause follows President Donald Trump's increased pressure on Ukraine to stop strikes on Russian gas and oil facilities, which he claims drive up global fuel prices. Experts, however, point to the U.S. war in Iran as the cause, the Wall Street Journal reports. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously stated that his country wants enhanced protection for its own energy facilities, which are repeatedly targeted by Russian attacks, in exchange for ceasing strikes against Russia.