Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready for an 'energy ceasefire' with Russia, provided Moscow stops attacks on critical infrastructure, and called for trilateral talks involving Putin and Trump.
Key facts
- Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready for an 'energy ceasefire' with Russia.
- The offer is conditional on Moscow halting attacks on critical infrastructure.
- Zelenskyy called for a trilateral meeting with Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.
- The remarks were reported by CNBC on September 23, 2026.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready for an ‘energy ceasefire’ with Russia, according to CNBC. The proposal centers on halting attacks that target energy and other critical infrastructure.
Zelenskyy attached a key condition to the offer, saying Ukraine’s readiness depends on Moscow stopping its attacks on critical infrastructure. In other words, the ceasefire would apply specifically to strikes affecting energy systems and related facilities.
Alongside the ceasefire proposal, Zelenskyy called for a trilateral meeting involving himself, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, according to CNBC’s reporting.
The framing of an ‘energy ceasefire’ suggests a narrower, targeted pause rather than a comprehensive halt to hostilities, focused on protecting infrastructure that supplies power to civilians and industry.
CNBC reported the remarks on September 23, 2026. The source material does not detail any response from Russia or the United States, nor a timeline or venue for the proposed trilateral talks.
Why it matters
Attacks on energy infrastructure have significant consequences for civilians, particularly during colder months when power and heating are critical. A proposal for a targeted energy ceasefire, combined with a call for direct talks between Ukraine, Russia and the United States, could shape the next phase of diplomacy in the war.
Frequently asked questions
What is an 'energy ceasefire'?
Based on Zelenskyy's remarks reported by CNBC, an energy ceasefire refers to halting attacks on critical infrastructure. Ukraine said it is ready for such a ceasefire provided Russia stops its attacks on that infrastructure.
What conditions did Zelenskyy set?
According to CNBC, Zelenskyy said Ukraine's readiness for the ceasefire is conditional on Moscow stopping its attacks on critical infrastructure.
Who did Zelenskyy want to meet?
Zelenskyy called for a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, according to CNBC.