Trump Discusses Ukraine Talks With Putin as U.S. Waives Some Russia Sanctions

In October 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States is actively holding talks with Russia on Ukraine and that he could end the negotiations with Vladimir Putin at any time. Trump defended a waiver of some U.S. sanctions on Russia, saying he declined to impose sanctions in the interest of progress in the Ukraine talks. Oil futures settled lower after the U.S. waived some Russia sanctions. The waiver also eased energy problems for India and improved chances for a trade deal.