Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called Donald Trump’s decision to roll back sanctions on Russia a reward for Vladimir Putin, warning it will embolden the Russian leader and intensify the war.
Zelenskyy warned that the pause on sanctions would encourage Putin to continue military actions against Ukraine, as Moscow launched a major attack on the country’s power plants. The Ukrainian president emphasized that the decision to roll back sanctions could embolden the Russian leader and intensify the war. He also expressed concerns that the Trump administration may lift more sanctions in the future, citing the recent 'diesel deal' as a potential precedent.
The US president announced a 60-day pause on a new sanctions package targeting Russia, citing the need to analyze its economic impact. The legislation, named after late senator Lindsey Graham, would have imposed tariffs on major importers of Russian oil and sanctions on Russia’s energy sector and financial institutions. The pause was described by US officials as a temporary measure to assess the global economic consequences of the proposed restrictions.
Why it matters
Zelenskyy’s warning highlights the potential impact of US policy on the ongoing conflict and Ukraine’s security.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The implementation of the Lindsey Graham Act and potential changes to US-Russia economic relations.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.