Trump suspended sanctions on Russia two days before they were due to take effect, as tensions with Ukraine's Zelensky intensify. Zelensky warned that Russia is trying to cause a blackout in Ukraine right before winter, threatening millions with cold and darkness.
Zelensky said Russia has attacked over 15 critical energy facilities, causing power cuts in multiple regions. He called on allies to pressure Moscow to stop attacks that aim to leave Ukrainians without electricity and heating. Trump's move to allow Russian diesel exports was seen as a reward for Putin, escalating the conflict.
Ukraine's leaders fear the waiver of sanctions will encourage further Russian aggression. Zelensky stressed the need for stringent sanctions to limit Russia's war funding, warning that the law was meant to impose effective pressure on Moscow. The move by Trump has drawn criticism from Democrats and Ukrainian officials who see it as a betrayal of Kyiv.
Zelensky and Trump have exchanged sharp words, with Zelensky calling Trump a 'real leader' while Trump said Zelensky was more difficult to deal with than Putin. The conflict highlights the growing rift between the US and Ukraine as tensions rise over sanctions and military support.