Trump Waives New Russia Sanctions, Drawing Criticism from Zelenskyy

MIAMI — October 18, 2026

In a significant geopolitical development, former President Donald Trump has waived new sanctions on Russia that were recently passed by Congress. This decision, announced on October 17, 2026, has drawn sharp criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who accused Trump of effectively rewarding Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The sanctions in question were part of a broader legislative package aimed at holding Russia accountable for its ongoing aggression in Ukraine and other international transgressions. The waiver comes at a time when U.S.-Russia relations are already strained, and it raises questions about the effectiveness of American foreign policy in the region.

Trump’s decision to waive these sanctions has been interpreted as a move that could undermine the bipartisan consensus in Congress regarding the need for a firm stance against Russia. The sanctions were designed to target key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy and finance, and were seen as a necessary response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and its interference in U.S. elections.

In his remarks, Zelenskyy emphasized that Trump’s actions could embolden Putin and further destabilize the region. “By waiving these sanctions, Trump is sending a message that aggression can be rewarded, which is dangerous for Ukraine and for global security,” Zelenskyy stated during a press conference.

This waiver is particularly noteworthy given the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Russian military actions have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of civilians. The U.S. has historically positioned itself as a supporter of Ukraine, providing military aid and diplomatic backing. Trump’s decision to waive sanctions could complicate these efforts and alter the dynamics of U.S. involvement in the region.

As of now, the implications of this waiver are being closely monitored by international observers and policymakers. The decision has sparked a debate within the U.S. about the future of its foreign policy towards Russia and the effectiveness of sanctions as a tool for deterrence.

Looking ahead, it is likely that Congress will respond to Trump’s waiver with renewed discussions about the need for a more robust approach to Russia. Potential actions could include reintroducing sanctions or increasing military support for Ukraine. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as both domestic and international stakeholders react to this significant shift in policy.

Source: NBC News