Zelensky Slams Trump Russia Sanctions Waiver — SkimNews
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- Zelensky decried Trump's late-night decision to waive sanctions and tariffs against Russia that were days from taking effect under a new law
- Zelensky framed the timing as particularly damaging, noting the waiver came 'at a time when the Russians have carried out such a massive attack on our energy sector'
- Other headlines indicate Trump's waiver covered tariffs of up to 100% on top Russian oil and gas buyers and a broader sanctions package targeting the Russian economy
- European leaders notably did not pressure Zelensky over his public criticism of Trump, per a Meduza analysis cited in cross-coverage
- The waived measures had been scheduled to take effect automatically before Trump's intervention pulled them back
Why it matters: Trump's last-minute reversal strips Ukraine of leverage it had been counting on, including up to 100% tariffs on Russian oil buyers, at the exact moment Russia is escalating strikes on Ukraine's energy grid — and the fact that European allies let Zelensky's rebuke stand without pressure suggests quiet frustration with Washington's Russia policy.
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