Desk:A new twist has emerged in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, with tensions escalating over attacks on energy infrastructure. Russia has lodged a complaint with the U.S., alleging that Ukraine targeted its energy facilities. This comes just hours after Ukraine made similar accusations against Russia. The situation has further strained relations between the two countries.
What’s the Full Story?
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Tuesday that Russia had provided the U.S. with a list of Ukrainian violations. He said the list was handed over to U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. According to Russia, Ukraine targeted its energy centers in the Belgorod region and Russian-controlled parts of Zaporizhzhia.
In response, Ukraine claimed that Russian attacks had caused massive power outages in the southern Kherson region, leaving thousands without electricity. However, Ukrainian officials later asserted that power supply had been restored.
Was There Any Agreement?
Interestingly, while both nations are accusing each other of attacking energy sites, there is no confirmed evidence of a formal agreement prohibiting such attacks.
The White House issued a statement saying that Ukraine and Russia had “agreed to work on developing an agreement to prevent attacks on energy facilities.” However, there has been no written confirmation or concrete information regarding the implementation of such an agreement.
Putin’s Tough Stance
Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of violating the alleged agreement during a high-level meeting with top security officials. Last month, the U.S. and Ukraine had proposed a complete ceasefire to Russia, but Putin rejected it.
Ukraine-U.S. ‘Mineral Deal’
Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing between Ukraine and the U.S. over a new mineral agreement. Under this deal, the U.S. could gain access to Ukraine’s natural resources in exchange for increased military and economic assistance to Ukraine.