Zelenskyy says Trump could lift more Russia sanctions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concern on Saturday that the United States might lift additional sanctions against Russia, suggesting that President Donald Trump's actions are merely rewarding Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. Trump escalated tensions with Zelenskyy on Friday by signing an executive order waiving US sanctions on Russia's energy revenues, a move despite Russia's ongoing attacks on Ukraine.

Trump had already announced a deal with Putin to allow Russian diesel exports in exchange for easing sanctions, a development that has alarmed Zelenskyy. The president fears further concessions and stated that the diesel deal is likely just the beginning. Zelenskyy emphasized that he still personally hopes Trump will do everything possible to end Putin's war, but he firmly believes sanctions should not be lifted as it discourages Ukraine's ability to respond to Russia's aggression.

On the same day as the executive order, Russia launched strikes on 15 critical power generation facilities in Ukraine, causing at least two deaths and injuries. Zelenskyy called for continued pressure on Russia, citing the Lindsey Graham Act, which aims to pressure the nation in its energy and defense sectors. He stressed that easing sanctions only encourages Russia's aggression and urged allies to pressure Moscow to stop the attacks.