Kremlin Welcomes Trump’s Energy Truce Proposal
The Kremlin has welcomed a U.S. proposal for a Russia-Ukraine moratorium on attacking each other’s energy infrastructure, while emphasizing the need to protect seaborne exports and remove “illegal” sanctions on Russia.
According to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, President Donald Trump’s suggestion is a “very good idea,” but it would require more than just an agreement not to hit each other’s energy targets. Peskov stressed that ensuring safe commercial shipping and navigation, including for oil tankers, is crucial. He also highlighted the need to lift sanctions against Russia and remove unlawful restrictions on energy supplies.
“It is necessary to ensure safe commercial shipping and navigation here, including for oil tankers,” Peskov said. “The Kyiv regime has so far shown no inclination to guarantee such security.” The Kremlin official emphasized that removing sanctions would stabilize global markets and lower prices.
Trump’s Proposal Faces Skepticism from Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has expressed skepticism about the energy ceasefire proposal, stating that Kyiv is ready to support an agreement only if Washington can ensure Moscow is genuinely committed to ending its war on Ukraine. Zelenskiy’s stance reflects Ukraine’s concerns about Russia’s military actions and its desire for a comprehensive settlement.
Ukraine has been targeting Russian energy facilities in response to Moscow’s attacks, leading to fuel shortages and price increases. The conflict has also affected global markets, driving up prices and contributing to inflation.
Global Market Turmoil
The global market turmoil is primarily attributed to the conflict in the Gulf, according to the Kremlin. Trump launched military strikes on Iran in February, which led Tehran to largely close the Strait of Hormuz. This move had a significant impact on global oil and gas supplies, with about one-fifth of these supplies previously passing through the strait.
The escalation between Russia and Ukraine has also driven up grain prices, as both countries are major exporters. The conflict has resulted in a summer of fuel shortages in Russia, prompting restrictions on exports and contributing to price increases.
Next Steps
The Kremlin will continue to engage with the Americans regarding Trump’s proposal. Peskov emphasized that Russia is committed to finding a solution that benefits all parties involved. However, the road ahead remains uncertain, as Ukraine’s skepticism about the energy ceasefire proposal suggests that negotiations may be challenging.
Original Article: Kremlin welcomes Trump’s idea of energy truce with Ukraine, calls for sanctions removal — Kelo