Trump Exempts Russia from Sanctions in Historic Move

President Donald Trump has exempted Russia from major new sanctions under the Graham Act, a move Moscow called "historic" and a fresh blow to Ukraine. The executive order was issued Friday evening. The Kremlin's Kirill Dmitriev praised the suspension, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, feeling "betrayed," has requested $70 billion in additional aid from European allies. The Graham Act, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, targeted Russia's energy sector and its shadow fleet. The exemption cites US national interest, following Trump's October deal with Vladimir Putin to lift sanctions for Russian diesel imports. Ukraine faces intensified Russian bombardments and relies on Western intelligence, while EU leaders pledged support but avoided committing to specific funding figures.