Russia waives sanctions while escalating pressure on Ukraine

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President Donald Trump signed an executive order delaying key measures under a new Russia sanctions law, including tariffs and many sanctions, while imposing potentially steep duties on future purchases of Russian energy by major importers. European Union leaders criticized the temporary easing of restrictions and reaffirmed support for Ukraine, while Russia said a proposed security zone inside Ukraine along the border would be non-negotiable in future talks. The simultaneous diplomatic shift and continued battlefield escalation raise uncertainty over the direction of US-Russia relations, Western pressure on Moscow, and prospects for negotiations.

Sources: Anadolu Agency, Reuters, The Independent, European News