Zelensky attacks Trump and vows to strike Russian refineries
Volodymyr Zelensky has launched a personal attack on US President Donald Trump and pledged to resume strikes on Russian oil refineries, defying a US-declared ceasefire and plunging their relationship to a new low. Zelensky expressed anger over the withdrawal of US intelligence and the slowing of Starlink services, and criticised the White House for its eagerness to do business with Russia. He said Trump admired Vladimir Putin and had a natural affinity for strongmen and billionaires, citing Trump's respect for leaders who stay in power for decades. Relations have deteriorated since Trump waived sanctions on Russian diesel last Friday, allowing 300,000 tons onto global markets before US midterm elections. Trump has also called for Zelensky to resign, which the Ukrainian president dismissed as rhetoric that would embolden Putin.