Russian Invasion International Response

US Sanctions on Russia Paused for Up to 60 Days

The pause on new US sanctions against Russia will last for up to 60 days, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He stated that the purpose is to evaluate the economic consequences.

"The President wants to analyze how sanctions and tariffs would affect both the global economy and the United States," Rubio said, according to Reuters.

The decision to pause the sanctions has been criticized by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who warns that it could embolden Vladimir Putin and prolong the war.

Darline Graham: "I Want to Keep Pressuring Putin"

Donald Trump’s decision to pause sanctions against Russia is sparking anger even among his own allies, US media report.

Among them is Darline Graham, who—with Trump’s support—took over the Senate seat previously held by her brother, Lindsey Graham, following his death. It was Lindsey Graham who spearheaded the sanctions package in Congress.

"I would choose to continue putting pressure on Russia to end the war and bring down fuel prices, because I trust neither Putin nor Russia," she said, according to CNN.

Several other Republicans are also critical—including Congressman Don Bacon, who argues that Trump’s decision will prolong the war in Ukraine. Among Democrats, the rhetoric is even harsher.

"Trump’s pact with the devil is getting even dirtier," said top Democrat Chuck Schumer, according to the AP. 

Zelenskyy: We were attacked 76 times during the "truce"

Since Donald Trump claimed a week ago that Moscow and Kyiv had agreed to an "energy truce," Russia has attacked Ukraine’s energy sector 76 times, Volodymyr Zelenskyy writes on X.

He further notes that, during the same period, Russia launched nearly 2,700 attack drones, 1,700 aerial bombs, and 66 missiles. Zelenskyy also takes a jab at Trump—who, during this same timeframe, has called off a major sanctions package against Russia and purchased 300,000 tons of diesel from the country—while simultaneously claiming that it is Ukraine that does not want peace.

"It is because of Russia’s stance that the war continues [...] It is Russia that must be subjected to pressure if peace is to have a chance."