WASHINGTON D.C Oct 18, 2026 – U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Truth Social that he is actively negotiating an end to the Russia-Ukraine war and does not want to take steps that would drive Russia away from talks.
“My decision on Russia is a very simple one. I am in the process of negotiating Peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine, and don’t want to do anything that will drive, foolishly, Russia away from the bargaining table,” Trump wrote. He added that “great progress is being made, and that includes current hostage negotiations,” while claiming he could finalize a deal at any time.
The statement came as Trump suspended provisions of a new sanctions package (the Lindsey Graham Act) days before they were set to take effect. He cited U.S. national interests and concerns over diesel markets. Trump accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of targeting Russian diesel refineries in ways that hurt global energy prices and American farmers, ranchers, and businesses, while arguing Zelensky “doesn’t want to end this war, and probably never did” and could have secured a better deal earlier.
Russian Presidential Envoy Kirill Dmitriev welcomed the sanctions waiver as “an important and truly historic moment,” saying it prevents serious damage to the U.S. and global economies and opens the door to economic cooperation that could support peace efforts. Dmitriev has been in talks with U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has pushed back, describing closer U.S. alignment with Russia as a potential “historic mistake.” He has held discussions with the same U.S. envoys amid continued mutual strikes on energy infrastructure.
The developments occur against the backdrop of a recent U.S.-Russia diesel import arrangement, reported energy ceasefire discussions, and ongoing territorial and security guarantee talks. Both sides continue military operations while diplomatic channels remain open.
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