Zelenskiy Accuses Russia of Exploiting Ceasefire Amid Energy Attacks

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accuses Russia of using a brief U.S.-backed ceasefire to amass weapons for attacks on Ukraine. With U.S.-brokered peace talks approaching, Russia's strikes have left Ukrainian cities without heating amid freezing temperatures, intensifying pressure on Ukraine to make concessions in negotiations.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has charged Russia with leveraging a short-lived U.S.-endorsed energy truce to stockpile arms and launch drone and missile attacks on Ukraine. This accusation emerges as Ukraine awaits a U.S. reaction to damage inflicted upon its energy infrastructure, which has left many without heat in the freezing cold.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin adhered to the ceasefire agreement, which expired Sunday, but swiftly resumed hostilities thereafter. The attacks have disrupted heating in various Ukrainian cities, as negotiators prepare for another round of U.S.-led peace talks in Abu Dhabi.

The conflict continues to ravage Ukraine amid heated debates over territorial concessions. Zelenskiy criticized Russia's motives, suggesting their aim is to cripple Ukraine's energy system. Talks are ongoing, but a lasting resolution remains elusive as both nations stand firm on territorial lines.

(With inputs from agencies.)