Trump defends Russia sanctions waivers, accuses Zelenskyy of 'prolonging war'

U.S. President Donald Trump defended his recent decision to waive some sanctions against Russia, claiming that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was unwilling to end the conflict. Trump argued that his approach aimed to negotiate peace and prevent Russia from abandoning the bargaining table. He also waived sanctions on Russian diesel, hoping to alleviate fuel prices before the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, despite economists' skepticism that the measure would significantly impact prices.

Zelenskyy responded sharply, warning that Ukraine would struggle to defend itself against Russia if the U.S. aligned with Moscow. He accused Trump of potentially sidelining Ukraine, calling it a "historic mistake and big tragedy." The Ukrainian leader stated that the U.S. and other partners needed to maintain their strategic alliance with Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials reported that Russian missile strikes left thousands without power, with three fatalities. The situation escalated as Ukraine launched drones at President Putin's hometown of Saint Petersburg, setting an oil refinery ablaze and killing one person. Zelenskyy also criticized U.S. restrictions affecting Ukraine's war efforts.