Trump halts Russia sanctions, Ukraine objects

US President Donald Trump has halted several sanctions planned against Russia before they could take effect.

The decision was made public at a time when his dispute with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been escalating. Ukraine's government has clearly objected to Washington's move.

Top leaders of both major parties in the US Congress have also strongly criticized the decision. This week, Trump has taken other steps as well that put Ukraine in a difficult position.

Questions have arisen over what the state of the Ukrainian military would be if the United States stops providing military assistance and intelligence information. A debate has also begun over how much Russia stands to benefit from the halting of the sanctions.