Trump’s Russia sanctions reversal deepens rift with Zelensky as Europe rallies behind Kyiv

On October 17, President Donald Trump signed an executive order waiving US sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia's energy revenues, deepening the rift between Washington and Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on EU leaders to provide an additional $80 billion in funding for Kyiv's fight against Russia, emphasizing his country's struggle.

The Lindsey Graham Act allowed Trump to impose duties up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, targeting Russia's energy, defense sectors, President Putin, and his shadow fleet of tankers. Trump's reversal on the Russia sanctions came after he struck a deal with Putin to ease sanctions in exchange for releasing diesel into global markets, exacerbating oil shortages and price spikes that have hit his Republican Party ahead of midterm elections.

Zelensky, smiling when asked if he was being blamed for Trump's domestic woes, stated that this is his response. The strained relations between the US and Ukraine saw Trump brand Kyiv's actions a "disgrace" after Zelensky ordered strikes on Russian refineries. US-provided satellite technology has also hampered Ukraine's counterattacks, with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, a vocal critic of Zelensky, denying any involvement in the disruption.

European leaders rallied behind Zelensky, urging increased support and pressure on Russia. Zelensky requested more Patriot missiles and an extra 70 billion euros in support for 2024, urging EU partners to step in and help. European Council chief Antonio Costa stressed the importance of maintaining Ukraine's support, while Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten highlighted the dire situation in Ukraine.

Ukrainian authorities are scrambling to boost defenses ahead of winter, facing a budget deficit as Russian strikes have battered the country's economy.