Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine will not attack ships carrying Russian diesel fuel to the United States.

Axar.az reports, citing Ukrainian media, that commenting on Ukrainian strikes against Russian oil refineries, Zelensky also said Ukrainian forces had acted more cautiously in recent days but had received no order to halt the attacks.

“As for the ships that have left Russia for America, no one will touch these ships, because they are ships that have ties to the United States,” he said.

"I believe the diesel deal opens the door for the Russians to take further similar steps. These could be fertilisers, gas, frozen assets, and other individuals and entities that could have sanctions lifted," he added.

He added that Ukraine had continued operations against Russian targets in response to Russian strikes, including attacks on energy infrastructure.

Zelensky previously said Ukraine was ready to stop striking Russian oil-refining infrastructure if Moscow ceased attacks on Ukraine’s electricity infrastructure.