Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the support of "real leaders" in Europe on Friday in Brussels, following his announcement that Kyiv has resumed attacks on Russian oil refineries, emphasizing that there are no signs of Moscow's readiness "to end this war".
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte stated, "It is essential that we, the Europeans, show our unconditional support" for Ukraine, "and look for further steps we can take," describing the situation in the Ukrainian territories as "extremely dangerous" due to ongoing numerous Russian attacks and tense relations with the United States.
At the beginning of his visit to Brussels, Zelensky met with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, stressing the need to expedite supplying Ukraine with interceptors and munitions amidst escalating Russian strikes. The Ukrainian president declared on Thursday, "Since midnight yesterday until now, the Russians have launched about 1,000 drones".
For his part, Rutte pointed out the importance of implementing the "ceasefire in the energy sector" proposed by Trump on Sunday, which was not confirmed by the Kremlin. However, Zelensky did not mention this at all in his statements regarding his meeting with Rutte.
Ukraine had announced on Thursday that it had resumed its strikes against Russian oil refineries after a hiatus, following the unilateral announcement by the U.S. president regarding a partial ceasefire.
Europe will not lift sanctions or withdraw support
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa stated on Friday that the European Union will continue to support Ukraine and will not lift any sanctions imposed on Russia.
Von der Leyen added in statements to reporters before a summit of EU leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: "One thing is absolutely clear, we will not lift any sanctions unless Russia stops this war".
Trump criticizes Kyiv and describes attacks on refineries as "shameful"
In contrast, Trump described Ukraine's resumption of strikes on Russian oil refineries as "shameful," arguing that Kyiv contributes to rising global energy prices. He said, "I find dealing with Zelensky more difficult than dealing with Putin".
Moscow, which has not stopped its attacks on Ukraine, confirmed on Thursday the outbreak of fire at one of its oil refineries following a "large-scale" attack by Ukrainian drones and missiles.
For his part, the U.S. president has publicly criticized several times Ukraine's strikes on energy facilities in Russia, considering that this exacerbates the global fuel shortage and contributes to rising prices.
Kyiv says it seeks to cut off Russian revenues from fuels that fund the war. In recent years, it has targeted many refineries and fuel depots, causing fuel shortages even within Russia.
Pressure on Moscow
Zelensky emphasized, during his meetings with Europeans, which he started on Thursday afternoon, the necessity of continuing pressure on Moscow. He wrote on social media the evening before a working session with EU leaders, "We all want this war to end in Europe. To achieve this, we need strong signals, i.e., more real pressure on Russia and more defensive support for Ukraine".
French President Emmanuel Macron, following his meeting with the Ukrainian president, confirmed that it is "crucial" to provide Ukraine with the means to defend itself.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk published an online message from Brussels saying, "I can assure you, dear Ukrainian friends and President Zelensky: you are not alone".
European Leaders: "The Western alliance is in a weaker position"
Upon their arrival in Brussels on Thursday, European leaders expressed reservations about these "technical" incidents and Trump's recent statements. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen diplomatically stated, "I believe the Western alliance is now in a weaker position than it was a few days ago".
However, the majority agree that the relationship with the United States is essential to supporting the Ukrainians. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas stated regarding the United States, "Of course, we depend on them".