Headline: Russia Strikes Ukrainian Power Plant Hours After Trump Announces Energy Ceasefire

Date: 12 October 2026

Tags: World Politics, Russia-Ukraine War, US Politics, Energy

Summary:

- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia attacked a power plant shortly after Donald Trump announced an immediate energy ceasefire.

- Trump claimed on Sunday that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to stop attacking each other's energy infrastructure.

- Zelensky said Ukraine had not agreed to the arrangement beforehand but remained willing to participate if Russia complied.

- The Ukrainian president suggested an energy ceasefire could become a significant step towards ending the wider conflict.

- Russia's overnight strikes reportedly damaged a power plant in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city.

- Ukraine's electricity operator reported power outages across Kharkiv, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia following damage to energy infrastructure.

- Electricity rationing has been introduced in affected areas to prevent further strain on damaged equipment.

- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to confirm the ceasefire, stating that discussions were continuing.

- Trump has pressured Ukraine to stop attacking Russian oil refineries following Washington's agreement to ease Russian diesel sanctions.

- Zelensky reiterated his willingness to organise presidential elections if Russia agreed to a comprehensive 60-day ceasefire.

Why this matters: Continued Russian strikes raise doubts about Trump's announced ceasefire and whether Moscow has agreed to halt attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Further damage could worsen electricity shortages as Ukraine approaches winter.

What’s next: Ukraine is awaiting confirmation from Moscow regarding the proposed energy ceasefire. Diplomatic discussions are continuing, while Ukrainian authorities work to restore electricity supplies and protect critical infrastructure.