"Ukraine Will Retaliate Against Russian Strikes On Energy This Winter," Zelenskyy Warns

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on September 11, 2026, that Ukraine is prepared to hit back if Moscow targets the national power grid during the upcoming cold season.

Speaking with journalist Fareed Zakaria at the Yalta European Strategy event, the President emphasized that while Kyiv avoids causing humanitarian crises, it retains the capability to respond to any hostile operations.

"Russia knows that if they strike—and they are preparing to strike our energy system in the winter—Russia will receive the same. If they cause us blackouts, we will try to respond adequately," Ukrainian President noted.

Zelenskyy also highlighted an alternative route favored by Ukraine, which involves negotiations to end Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He suggested that if ending the war outright remains difficult, international partners should adopt a step-by-step approach to reach agreement on critical issues.

One prospective step involves reaching an energy truce to safeguard the power systems of both nations alongside opening up navigation.

Prolonging Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine generates serious consequences globally. Zelenskyy pointed to the ongoing naval blockade in the Black Sea, which severely restricts agricultural exports. While Ukrainians will not face food shortages, agricultural logistics will become extremely complicated and expensive.

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War in Ukraine

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The situation in the Black Sea was directly compared to shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz caused by strikes between the US and Iran that impacted global oil distribution. Zelenskyy warned: "This will be Hormuz, but agricultural. And this is a serious problem."

Even if broader peace talks are currently unfeasible, both parties can still work toward agreements on energy stability and global food security.

Zelenskyy emphasized: "Agriculture and energy are two challenges for the whole world today." He also urged international partners to continue supporting prisoner-of-war exchanges and assist in returning civilian detainees, journalists, and Ukrainian children held by Russia.

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