U.S. official calls Ukraine a partner but urges halt to refinery attacks
In a TV interview, Vance said Ukraine remains a partner yet should stop targeting Russian diesel plants, warning such strikes raise U.S. energy costs.
During a broadcast interview, Vance characterized Ukraine as a partner, though he acknowledged occasional differences in U.S. and Ukrainian priorities. He explicitly opposed Ukraine's strikes on Russian diesel fuel production sites, arguing they lead to rising energy prices in the United States. Vance noted that, to his knowledge, there is no formal alliance between the United States and Ukraine and expressed doubt about Ukraine joining NATO.
He praised Ukraine as an admirable nation with remarkable people, emphasizing cooperation on some issues while expecting disagreement on others. The discussion also touched on President Donald Trump's stance, where he said he does not want actions that could push Russia away from peace negotiations and accused President Volodymyr Zelensky of avoiding an end to the war.
Why it matters
The comments highlight tensions over Ukraine's military strategy and its impact on global energy markets and U.S. policy.
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