Trump's Sanctions Pause on Russia Draws Criticism, Risks Ukraine War Impact

President Trump's decision to suspend new sanctions against Russia has drawn criticism and threatens to impact the war in Ukraine, with Ukrainian President Zelensky predicting further sanctions removals. Zelensky stated the diesel purchase agreement is likely the first step in a broader sanctions rollback, while Moscow's economic negotiator called the suspension a "historic moment." Italian Defense Minister Crosetto warned that limiting US satellite and intelligence support for Ukraine would be a grave error prolonging the conflict. Slovakia's Prime Minister Fico announced his country will not participate in a potential 70 billion euro EU loan to Ukraine for 2027, with Hungary sharing this position. Reports indicate the White House ordered restrictions on SpaceX's Starshield satellite service used by Ukrainian forces, though a US official denied the president made such a request.