Zelensky says US sanctions waiver rewards Putin
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized President Donald Trump's decision to waive US sanctions on Russia, saying it rewards President Vladimir Putin and encourages further attacks on Ukraine. Trump signed an executive order blocking sanctions from the Lindsey Graham Act, which targeted Russia's energy and defense sectors, just days before they were set to take effect. The waiver came despite increased Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, with Trump citing US national interests. Russian officials celebrated the move as historic, while Zelensky urged European allies to maintain support for Ukraine. The waiver followed a Trump-Putin deal easing sanctions in exchange for Russian diesel exports, though peace talks have stalled.