Zelenskiy criticizes Trump's waiver of sanctions on Russia as 'wrong'
USO•Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called President Donald Trump's waiver of Russia-related sanctions and tariffs “wrong,” saying it could encourage further Russian aggression. The measures, including tariffs of up to 100% on certain importers of Russian oil or gas, had been due to take effect next week.
1. Waiver draws criticism
Zelenskiy said Trump's decision to waive Russia-related sanctions and tariffs would “unfortunately” bring additional relief to Russia. “It definitely helps only the Russians,” he wrote on X, adding that the move would not stop the war.
2. Measures halted
An executive order issued Friday waived duties on Russian goods and penalties for buying Russian oil and gas that were scheduled to start next week under the Graham Act. Trump said the waiver was in the national interest of the United States; it remains in effect until he or his top officials determine that further action is appropriate.
3. Tariff provisions
The law would have imposed tariffs of up to 100% within 30 days on goods from the five largest importers of Russian crude oil or gas, as well as on certain other countries buying Russian energy or helping Russia evade sanctions. Zelenskiy said Russia struck more than 15 Ukrainian power generation and transmission sites on Friday and predicted the United States would continue sanctions relief beyond the waiver.
