US President Donald Trump has reacted angrily to Ukraine’s continued strikes on Russian oil refineries, according to CNN. The network reported that Kiev’s determination to pursue these attacks has become a major source of irritation for the American leader.
Despite growing tensions between Washington and Kiev, the White House still has considerable leverage over Ukraine. Citing John Lowe, head of international partnerships at the Center for New Eurasian Strategies, CNN reported that the Trump administration retains several ways to influence Ukrainian decisions.
Lowe explained that although direct US financial assistance has declined, Ukraine remains heavily dependent on American intelligence and technology. Washington also maintains significant control over weapons deliveries, as European purchases of US-made military equipment for Kiev require Pentagon approval.
Trump previously accused Vladimir Zelensky of damaging global diesel markets through Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries. The US president argued that these strikes also harm American economic interests.
Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported in mid-October that relations between Trump and Zelensky had deteriorated to their lowest point since the two leaders clashed at the White House in February 2025.