Trump defends waiving Russia sanctions, says it keeps Moscow at negotiating table

President Donald Trump defended his decision to waive critical sanctions and tariffs against Russia after facing backlash from Republicans who accused him of undermining Ukraine's support and giving in to Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump stated that enforcing the measures could derail peace negotiations in Ukraine, asserting that progress was being made in diplomatic talks.

He emphasized his goal of negotiating peace, avoiding actions that would push Russia away from the negotiating table. Trump claimed his decision was based on a simple principle: he wanted to negotiate peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and avoid stirring Russia's support for Iran. He also accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of causing harm to U.S. interests by targeting Russian diesel refineries, claiming that farmers, ranchers, and businesses were suffering from the situation while Russia continued to send low-cost diesel to global markets.

Trump criticized Zelensky for not wanting to end the war and possibly never having done so. The president also faced strong criticism from his own party, including Sen. Thom Tillis, Rep. Don Bacon, and others, who called the move "beyond irresponsible" and warned that it was prolonging the war instead of ending it.