Trump exempts Russia from new sanctions, Moscow celebrates

President Donald Trump has exempted Russia from new major sanctions under the Graham Act, a decision Moscow called a "historic moment" and Ukraine fears signals abandonment by its American ally. The White House decree, issued Friday evening, suspends sanctions, restrictions, and tariffs outlined in the law targeting Russia's energy sector, including its shadow fleet and President Vladimir Putin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who said he felt "betrayed," has requested $70 billion in additional aid from European allies. The Graham Act, named after the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, was a strong tool supported by Zelensky to pressure Russia into peace. Trump's move follows his recent agreement with Putin to lift sanctions for Russian diesel imports, while Kyiv reports restricted satellite data sharing from SpaceX amid escalating Russian bombardments.