Zelenskyy believes USA will continue to lift sanctions against Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy implored allies to advocate for renewed U.S. sanctions on Russia on Saturday, following President Donald Trump's temporary halt of a comprehensive restriction package targeting the Russian economy. This development has heightened apprehensions that Ukraine could be vulnerable to Russia's intensifying attacks as winter arrives.

Zelenskyy labeled Trump's decision to postpone sanctions as unfortunate, though he refrained from a direct assault on the U.S. leader amidst escalating tensions between the two nations. "An unfortunate decision was made in America to completely disregard the Lindsey Graham Act, intended to exert genuine pressure on Russia to end this war," Zelenskyy stated.

He expressed optimism that the new sanctions could be reinstated, emphasizing, "This Act could have had an immense impact - and it can still! But it must genuinely function, and every voice advocating for it counts." Kyiv reported that Moscow executed a 'massive' assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, targeting more than 15 locations across the country.

"The scale and relentless progression of Russia's strikes, particularly against our energy sector, are regrettably inflicting grave repercussions," Zelenskyy remarked. Ukraine's air force reported that Russian forces deployed four cruise missiles and 332 attack drones during the night, with all missiles and 289 drones either neutralized or destroyed.

Russia's persistent bombardment of the power grid in anticipation of winter has become a recurring aspect of the conflict, intended to wear down Ukraine's resolve by denying residents heating and running water. Ukrainian officials have cautioned that Russia is amassing ballistic missiles for forthcoming strikes in the upcoming months.