Trump waives Russia sanctions in deal with Putin, straining Ukraine ties

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday waiving sweeping US sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia's energy revenues, deepening a rift with Ukraine. The move follows a deal with Vladimir Putin to ease sanctions in exchange for Moscow releasing diesel into global markets. The Lindsey Graham Act, signed into law last month, had authorized duties up to 100 percent on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, targeting energy, defense, Putin, and Moscow's shadow fleet. Trump's reversal comes amid oil shortages from his Iran war, while Zelensky urged EU leaders for nearly $80 billion more in support. Zelensky defended his interests after Trump branded Kyiv's actions a "disgrace" over resumed strikes on Russian refineries. European leaders pledged unity, with Zelensky requesting Patriot missiles and 70 billion euros, though momentum is lacking on using frozen Russian assets.