Zelenskyy Opposes US Sanctions Relief for Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that the United States lifting sanctions on Russia will strengthen Vladimir Putin and hinder efforts to end the ongoing conflict. Zelenskyy clarified that his disagreement with US President Donald Trump is not personal, despite recent tensions caused by the White House's decision to ease measures in exchange for Russian diesel exports.

President Trump defended the policy shift, citing the successful release of 74-year-old American prisoner Stephen Hubbard. Meanwhile, US special envoy Steve Witkoff recently met with both Zelenskyy and Putin to facilitate negotiations. Despite these diplomatic efforts, Zelenskyy remains skeptical of Putin's genuine willingness to halt the war.

Editor's note: The brief accurately synthesizes the geopolitical tension and specific diplomatic developments reported in the source text.