Zelensky says Trump waiving sanctions ‘rewards’ Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized US President Donald Trump for waiving sanctions on Russia, stating that the move only rewards Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelensky claimed that Russia was attempting to cut off heat and electricity to millions of Ukrainians before winter. Trump signed an executive order waiving the penalties under the Lindsey Graham Act, which was aimed at crippling Russia's energy and defense sectors.

The decision came despite Russia increasing its strikes on Ukraine in the fifth year of its offensive, with attacks on power facilities and critical infrastructure. Zelensky urged allies to maintain pressure on Moscow to end the war, warning that the sanctions waiver could embolden Putin to continue his aggression. Russia hailed the move as a historic victory, with a Kremlin envoy praising the suspension of the Graham Act.

However, Zelensky emphasized that continued support and increased pressure on Russia were essential to ending the war.