Zelenskyy Criticizes Trump for Easing Sanctions on Russia
WHO:
CBS News - Ramy Inocencio reported on the backlash against President Trump's decision to waive sanctions.
NBC News - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed that it is a "pity" that President Trump bypassed sanctions law named for Lindsey Graham.
ABC News - Energy Secretary Chris Wright defended the decision to waive sanctions on Russia.
CBS News - President Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Salon - President Zelenskyy, President Putin
WHAT:
Salon - Zelenskyy condemned the suspension of sanctions, stating that it allows President Putin to evade accountability.
NBC News - Zelenskyy criticized Trump's executive order to waive Russia sanctions, specifically referencing the Lindsey Graham bill.
ABC News - Chris Wright stated that waiving the sanctions is "not an economic lifeline" for Russia.
CBS News - President Trump waived virtually all new sanctions on Russia.
Salon - Zelenskyy condemned the suspension of sanctions, stating that Trump is "letting Putin off."
Drudge Report - Headline states "TRUMP WAIVES RUSSIA SANCTIONS."
WHERE:
Salon - Reference to Moscow celebrating the decision.
WHY:
NBC News - Zelenskyy expressed that Trump's decision undermines legislative efforts aimed at holding Russia accountable for its actions against Ukraine.
NBC News - Zelenskyy’s comments reflect his disapproval of the decision to waive sanctions, indicating it undermines legislative efforts to hold Russia accountable.
ABC News - Wright's defense of the waiver suggests a strategic approach rather than a concession to Russia.
Salon - Zelenskyy stated that Trump’s decision "seems wrong" in light of the ongoing conflict and strikes against Ukraine.
CBS News - The decision to waive sanctions drew backlash amid ongoing strikes against Ukraine.
HOW:
CBS News - The decision to waive sanctions was made as Ukraine braces for winter attacks.
CBS News - The sanctions were signed by Trump as part of actions against Russia.
(UPDATED October 18, 2026 19:56 UTC)
President Trump's decision to waive sanctions has sparked significant backlash, with reports highlighting the concerns raised by various leaders. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned this suspension, arguing that it enables President Putin to evade accountability for his actions. He further emphasized that Trump's move undermines legislative efforts to hold Russia responsible for its aggression against Ukraine.
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(UPDATED October 18, 2026 16:55 UTC)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed disappointment that President Trump bypassed sanctions law named for Lindsey Graham. He criticized Trump's executive order to waive sanctions against Russia, highlighting the implications of this decision. Zelenskyy’s remarks underscore his disapproval, suggesting that it undermines legislative efforts aimed at holding Russia accountable.
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(UPDATED October 18, 2026 15:57 UTC)
Energy Secretary Chris Wright defended the decision to waive sanctions on Russia, stating that this move is "not an economic lifeline" for the country. His remarks indicate that the waiver is part of a strategic approach rather than a concession to Russia. This defense comes amid ongoing discussions about the implications of such sanctions on international relations.
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(UPDATED October 18, 2026 13:57 UTC)
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has expressed that Trump's decision to waive sanctions "seems wrong," especially given the ongoing conflict and recent strikes against Ukraine. This decision comes as Ukraine prepares for potential winter attacks, heightening concerns about the country's security. The situation remains critical as leaders navigate the complexities of international relations amidst the conflict.
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(UPDATED October 18, 2026 03:57 UTC)
President Trump has waived virtually all new sanctions on Russia, a move that has drawn significant backlash, especially amid ongoing strikes against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned this decision, stating that Trump is "letting Putin off," while Moscow celebrated the announcement. The sanctions were originally signed by Trump as part of actions against Russia, highlighting the contentious nature of this latest development.