The United States will temporarily suspend Trump-era tariffs on Ukrainian steel for a year in order to aid the Ukrainian economy and convey a message of support as the nation continues to fight Russia’s invasion.

“Steel mills must be allowed to export their steel if they are to remain an economic lifeline for the people of Ukraine. Today’s announcement sends a message to the Ukrainian people that we are dedicated to assisting them in thriving in the face of Putin’s hostility, and that their efforts will strengthen Ukraine in the present and future “In a written statement, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said.

During his April discussions at the White House, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal requested that the tariffs be lifted, and some members of Congress have also urged the Trump administration to do so. It appears that the relocation is primarily symbolic. According to the International Trade Administration, despite Ukraine being a significant worldwide steel supplier, the US only bought 130,649 metric tons of steel in 2021.

The Commerce Department’s decision comes a day after the US announced further sanctions and export limits against Russia in response to its unjustified invasion of Ukraine, and G7 leaders conducted a virtual conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.