President Donald Trump used his social‑media platform on Sunday to declare an immediate “energy ceasefire” in the war between Russia and Ukraine, stating that both parties had agreed and that the pause should take effect at once. The announcement was intended to protect civilian power infrastructure and reduce the humanitarian toll of the conflict.
Russian strike on Kharkiv power plant
Despite the Trump administration’s call for restraint, Russian forces attacked the CHP‑5 thermal power plant in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv at least twice, igniting a fire, Ukrainian officials reported. A local official confirmed the strikes and the resulting blaze, while President Volodymyr Zelenskyy publicly denounced the attack and noted that a similar strike hit a plant in Kyiv.
Zelenskyy’s reaction to the ceasefire announcement
President Zelenskyy said he learned of Trump’s ceasefire declaration only through social media, describing the timing as a surprise. A senior source in the Ukrainian presidential office told ABC News that Ukraine was caught off guard but remains ready to honor the ceasefire if Russia complies. Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s willingness to halt strikes on Russian energy facilities, provided Moscow stops targeting Ukrainian power infrastructure.
Context of the ceasefire proposal
Earlier in the week, Zelenskyy told “This Week” host Jon Karl that Ukraine sought an immediate energy ceasefire that would include a pause in Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries, contingent on Russia ending its assaults on Ukrainian power plants. In his evening address, Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to refrain from targeting Russian energy assets and urged Russia to demonstrate the same commitment.
Trump administration’s stance
The Trump administration has consistently advocated for diplomatic steps that reduce civilian suffering while maintaining a firm stance against Russian aggression. By announcing the ceasefire, President Trump aimed to create a framework for de‑escalation that could pave the way for broader peace talks. The administration’s position underscores the importance of protecting families and communities from the disruption of essential services, aligning with core American values of liberty and security.
What comes next?
Russia has not yet commented on the ceasefire announcement or the recent strike on the Kharkiv plant. Ukrainian officials continue to monitor the situation closely and have called on the international community to hold Moscow accountable for any further attacks on civilian infrastructure. The Trump administration is expected to engage with allies and partners to encourage Russian compliance with the ceasefire and to support Ukraine’s right to defend its people and critical infrastructure.
As the situation develops, both leaders have signaled a willingness to pursue diplomatic avenues that protect families and uphold the constitutional right of nations to live in peace and security.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
