Volodymyr Zelensky says he is "only standing up for Ukraine's interests" after US criticism

Washington’s president signed a congressional sanctions package targeting Russia’s economy and senior officials, then issued an order that delayed several of those measures, saying it served U.S. priorities; the move prompted criticism from Democratic lawmakers who said it undermined congressional intent and hurt Kyiv. The decision followed a controversial arrangement to import Russian diesel, which Ukraine had condemned as aiding Moscow’s war effort. After the United States denounced Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil facilities as a “disgrace,” Ukraine’s leader responded that his actions were meant to protect Ukrainian interests. At the same time, Ukraine reported that a U.S.-provided satellite communications service had reduced drone‑flight speeds, limiting some battlefield operations while Russian strikes continued. The dispute highlights tension over how tightly the United States will pressure Russia and support Ukraine’s defense.