Trump’s Oil Move Sparks Ukraine Protest

Zelensky slammed the United States for granting a 30‑day waiver that allows nations to purchase Russian oil stranded at sea, arguing it provides Moscow with additional funds to sustain its war in Ukraine.

• The waiver aims to calm rising global fuel prices.
• Zelensky estimates that the decision could bring up to $10 billion to Russia, bolstering its military campaign.

During a press conference in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron, Zelensky highlighted the danger of loosening economic pressure on Moscow. He noted that while the U.S. has already released a large amount of oil from its strategic reserve to curb price spikes, the waiver still permits more Russian barrels to enter markets.

International Reactions

• European Council: Warned that lifting sanctions weakens the push for peace, as higher Russian revenues help sustain the war effort.
• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz: Opposed the U.S. move, questioning its motives and stressing that sanctions remain essential to limit Russia’s war‑financing.

Current Conflict Status

• Russian forces continue attacks across Ukraine, killing three people and injuring 27 in the past day.
• The conflict’s violence remains high, with Russian missile and drone strikes targeting civilian areas.

Ukraine maintains that any diplomatic breakthrough must come from sustained international pressure, not relaxed sanctions.