Ukraine has stopped drone attacks on oil tankers in the Russian port of Novorossiysk, following pressure from the US administration, the Financial Times reported.
According to the report, the intervention came from US Vice President JD Vance, who expressed the White House's concern that the attacks could destabilize global energy markets and endanger the interests of US companies in the region.
The request was conveyed to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a phone call on July 31. The focus was on American interests in the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC), through which most of Kazakhstan's oil is transported to international markets.
Chevron and ExxonMobil have significant investments in Kazakhstan's energy sector. Chevron owns 50% of the huge Tengiz oil field, while ExxonMobil has a 25% stake.
Previous Ukrainian attacks on infrastructure linked to oil exports have disrupted flows and increased transportation and insurance costs. These developments have added uncertainty to global energy markets, especially at a time when supplies are under pressure due to conflict in the Middle East.
According to the Financial Times, a significant factor in Kiev's decision was the need for Patriot interceptor missiles. Ukraine is seeking US approval for their production and aims to secure hundreds of the missiles before winter, when an intensification of Russian attacks on critical infrastructure is expected.
Meanwhile, Kiev has continued its campaign against Russian energy infrastructure, striking several oil refineries inside Russia. The attacks have affected refining capacity and added pressure on international fuel markets.
