Zelenskyy warns sanctions relief would strengthen Putin, not peace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he disagrees with US President Donald Trump over lifting sanctions on Russia, warning that easing restrictions would strengthen President Vladimir Putin and undermine peace efforts. He stressed the dispute is not personal. Zelenskyy made the remarks in a CNN interview in Kyiv on Thursday, opposing any sanctions relief and arguing Putin has no intention of ending the war. Relations have deteriorated after Trump waived some sanctions and announced a Russian fuel deal, drawing criticism from his own party. Zelenskyy said Ukraine could consider freezing front lines to start negotiations but ruled out recognizing occupied territories as Russian. He also reported Finland's €300 million support package and called for better missiles and continued sanctions from partners.