Britain accelerates the strengthening of Ukraine's defenses...and Russia criticizes the "lack of peace signals"

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In conjunction with the proposed American truce in the energy sector between Moscow and Kiev, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed on Wednesday that his country would accelerate the delivery of air defense systems manufactured in Britain to Ukraine, following a wave of intense Russian attacks on the country.

During his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Downing Street, Starmer said that Britain stands by Ukraine, stressing that this position “will not change.” He added that the last days and hours were "difficult and dark" for Ukraine, noting that it had been subjected to heavy bombing during the past twenty-four hours.

Starmer also praised Zelensky's acceptance to enter into negotiations on US President Donald Trump's proposal to stop targeting energy facilities, but he expressed his regret at the continued Russian attacks on vital Ukrainian infrastructure.

Therefore, the British Prime Minister stressed that his country will work to accelerate the delivery of locally manufactured air defense systems to Kiev.

For his part, Zelensky said that Ukraine is ready for any formula for a ceasefire, but he considered that the escalation was coming from the Russian side, stressing that providing his country with British air defense systems was essential.

On the other hand, Russia accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks that targeted two oil refineries inside Russian territory, in what it considered a violation of the energy truce announced by Trump, while Kiev denied targeting the refineries.

Meanwhile, Russian Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs Alexander Novak said that two refineries were attacked in the Saratov and Ryazan regions.

But Ukrainian President's Advisor Dmytro Lytvyn described the accusations as "false", stressing that other sites had been subjected to attacks, without oil refineries being among them.

In addition, Moscow accused Kiev of not showing any signs of moving towards a truce related to the energy sector, in light of the exchange of accusations regarding adherence to the American proposal.

In parallel with the military escalation, Moscow expected to conclude the first Russian diesel export contracts within the next few days, following Trump’s announcement of reaching an agreement with Russia to supply large quantities of diesel to the United States and global markets.

Kremlin Advisor for International Economic Cooperation Kirill Dmitriev said that the arrangements will be completed in the coming days, indicating continued communication with the American side and working to address logistical issues to implement the agreement.

For his part, Novak explained that the preparation of supply contracts is currently taking place at the level of ministries and companies in the two countries, adding that the shipments will go to global markets, including the United States directly.

It is noteworthy that the agreement sparked European and Ukrainian criticism, as Zelensky described it as “weak” and “disgraceful,” while Trump defended it, saying that he made the right choice for the American people.