Ukraine war updates: U.S. reportedly urges Kyiv to cease strikes on Russian oil refineries; IMF approves $880 million loan payment for Ukraine

Washington has urged Kyiv to halt drone strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, citing concerns about the potential impact on global oil prices. The White House is worried that such attacks could lead to retaliatory strikes on Western energy facilities. This comes as Kharkiv experienced power outages following Russian missile strikes targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund has approved a third review of Ukraine’s loan program, granting the country $880 million in budget support. Kyiv also faced a significant Russian drone and missile attack, resulting in injuries.