MOSCOW, October 17 (HS/RIA Novosti) - US President Donald Trump's decision to freeze the sanctions law indicates the seriousness of Washington's intent to help reach a settlement regarding Ukraine, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov told RIA Novosti on Saturday.

This decision [to freeze the sanctions law] indicates the seriousness of the US administration's intent to assist in finding a settlement, Ryabkov said.

After Trump's decision, everyone can expect squealing and hooting from the European Union, he added.

In a new decree, Trump has refused to apply sanctions against Russian officials, banks, and organizations stipulated by the new law on sanctions against Russia. The law also includes a ban on new US investments in Russia and measures to ensure a ban on the import of Russian uranium.

The exceptions provided for by Trump do not affect previously imposed US sanctions against Russia.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar