Kiev fumes as Trump suspends new sanctions on Russia

Moscow rejoiced while Kiev bristled at US President Donald Trump's decision to suspend new sanctions on Russia. Kremlin representative Kirill Dmitriev dubbed the suspension as a "historic moment," arguing that it would bolster economic ties between the two nations. Just days ago, Trump inked a sanctions package against Russia, but paused the tariffs set forth in the bill just before they were set to take effect.

Trump claimed the move was in the US's national interest. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vehemently opposed the decision, predicting that it would embolden Russia to continue its aggression. "Russia is trying to cause a blackout in Ukraine - right before winter," Zelensky warned. Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to cut off electricity and heating to millions of Ukrainians, Zelensky added.

Dmitriev noted that the sanctions would have crippled economic relations between Russia and the US, causing "serious damage" to the US economy and global markets. Zelensky called for the immediate enactment of the bill, named after Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally who passed away in July. The European Union also hoped the bill would curb Russia's war efforts.

However, suspending the tariffs one week prior to the deadline leaves Ukraine in a dire predicament, according to Klaus Fischer, a professor of international relations at the University of Cologne. "This is undoubtedly the darkest moment for the Ukrainians in this war so far," Fischer stated. Trump's move, Fischer explained, is a drastic shift from his previous support for Kiev, especially as the mid-term elections approach on November 3 and high energy costs from the Iran conflict loom.

Although Trump may return to Ukraine after the mid-terms, the upcoming weeks could inflict long-term damage. Ukraine is nearly solely reliant on the US for its air defense, Fischer pointed out. Zelensky reported that Russia launched one of its most intense attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure on Friday. Over 15 critical power generation and transmission facilities were targeted across various regions.

Over 320 missiles, cruise missiles, and drones were used in the assault. The capital Kiev, the eastern city of Kharkiv, and other affected areas are grappling with power and heating shortages. Russia reportedly used 320 missiles, cruise missiles, and drones to target energy facilities, cities, and communities, resulting in reported deaths and injuries.