Ukraine Proposes Ceasefire Linked to Energy Security

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reaffirmed a proposal for a mutual ceasefire with Russia, specifically conditioned on the cessation of attacks on energy infrastructure. The offer, mediated through the United States, comes amid escalating tensions ahead of the Orthodox Easter holiday.

In a video address late Monday, Zelensky stated that Kyiv is prepared to halt strikes on Russian energy targets if Moscow reciprocates. "If Russia is ready to stop attacking our energy infrastructure, we are ready to respond in kind," he said, noting that security guarantees remain a central pillar of ongoing talks with U.S. negotiators.

The proposal follows a similar call for an Easter truce last week. However, Zelensky reported that Moscow’s response involved the deployment of Iranian-made Shahed drones. A recent strike on the port city of Odessa, which claimed three lives, has further dampened hopes for a holiday reprieve.

While Kyiv seeks specific tactical halts to protect civilian power grids, Moscow has remained cool toward the idea, signaling a preference for a "comprehensive peace deal" rather than localized or temporary ceasefires.