Symbolic imageTrump rebukes Zelensky over refinery strikes as EU backs Kyiv
Trump attacked Zelensky on Friday over Ukraine's renewed strikes on Russian refineries, while EU leaders in Brussels backed Kyiv. Ukraine's military Starlink access was throttled.
Zelensky announced on Thursday, 15 October, that strikes on Russian oil refineries would resume because Russia kept attacking Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Moscow says Kyiv never observed a moratorium. Trump called the resumption a 'disgrace' (Reuters) and said Zelensky was 'not a good man for us to negotiate with' (FAZ). Zelensky smiled away a question on whether he is Trump's scapegoat.
EU rejects easing sanctions
Council President Costa said it was not the time to loosen sanctions on Russia, and Commission President von der Leyen said none would be lifted until Russia ends the war. She also confirmed Ukraine needs a further €70bn in 2027. Chancellor Merz called attacks on Russian energy facilities 'right'.
Starlink curbs and a US denial
Reuters reported that the order to throttle Starshield came from the White House to the Pentagon; Trump denies responsibility. Nine members of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, four of them Republicans, asked the Pentagon inspector general to investigate. EU foreign policy chief Kallas said Europe cannot replace the capacity in the short term.
Patriot shortage and a reported offer
FAZ reports allies have pledged only about 100 Patriot interceptors, against the 300 Zelensky wants for winter. The Wall Street Journal, cited by Meduza, reports US lawmakers offered Starlink coverage 300 km into Russia in return for a halt to refinery strikes, and that Zelensky was receptive.