Zelensky Confirms New Strikes on Russian Refineries

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that Ukraine will resume strikes targeting Russian refineries, facilities that process crude oil into fuel used for transport and industry. The decision has reignited tensions with Washington.

US President Donald Trump publicly criticised the move, describing the renewed strikes as "a shame." His comment reflects a wider disagreement over how the war should be conducted and what targets are considered acceptable.

The conflict, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, remains unresolved, with both sides continuing to strike strategic infrastructure in an effort to weaken each other's military and economic capacity.

Separately, reports have highlighted a growing concern over Russia's use of S-400 missile systems, a sophisticated air defence and strike platform. According to these reports, the United States is able to detect launches of these missiles almost instantly, thanks to advanced surveillance capabilities. European nations, by contrast, reportedly lack equivalent detection speed, raising questions about the continent's ability to respond independently to Russian military threats.

This disparity has fuelled debate about Europe's dependence on US intelligence and defence infrastructure at a time when transatlantic cooperation appears increasingly uncertain.

Adding to this uncertainty, there are indications that Ukraine feels increasingly abandoned by its principal ally, as US backing has reportedly become less predictable. Despite this, Zelensky appears willing to defy Trump's position, pressing ahead with strikes on Russian energy infrastructure regardless of Washington's objections.

Meanwhile, Kyiv authorities are reportedly advancing a project described as an "Ark of Noah," though specific details remain scarce. The name suggests an initiative aimed at safeguarding the city or its population, possibly in anticipation of further escalation or infrastructure damage.

Together, these developments point to a complex and evolving dynamic between Kyiv, Moscow and Washington, with diverging strategic priorities and an uncertain trajectory for Western support as the war continues into its fourth year.