Trump waives new Russia sanctions passed by Congress, citing ‘national interests’
The White House said the pause could shield U.S. energy markets and preserve flexibility, while leaving existing sanctions on Russia in place.
- On Friday, President Donald Trump issued an executive order waiving various sanctions and duties on Russia established by the Graham Act, days before these measures were set to take effect.
- Trump signed the Graham Act on September 18, 2026, aiming to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods from major importers of Russian crude oil or gas and targeting countries facilitating sanctions evasion.
- The executive order waives specified provisions under Sections 102 through 117 of the law, while Trump directed the Trade Representative to monitor ongoing purchases of Russian energy and report circumstances indicating further action may be needed.
- Administration officials stated the waivers serve the national interest of the United States, though the decision faces criticism from lawmakers concerned that easing restrictions could provide revenue to Moscow while the war in Ukraine continues.
- The administration retains authority to reinstate measures if needed, while future tariff provisions target countries that knowingly make new purchases of Russian crude oil or gas on or after October 18, 2026.
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Trump waves Russia sanctions passed by Congress amid deepening row with Ukraine
Donald Trump has put on hold a sweeping new sanctions package targeting the Russian economy, telling Congress the pause on the legislation passed by both chambers was in the national interest, the Guardian reported.
“That the United States dispenses with sanctions, that the pressure on the aggressor is relaxed and that Putin is financially rewarded serves nothing but to encourage him to continue to attack,” the Ukrainian president said.
Zelensky on Trump waiving Russia sanctions: 'This Act could have helped enormously'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky decried President Trump’s late-night decision to waive sanctions and tariffs against Russia days before they were set to take effect under a new law. “At a time when the Russians have carried out such a massive attack on our energy sector, a decision was unfortunately made in America to completely disregard...
Congress passed the Russia sanctions bill named for Lindsey Graham with bipartisan support. Trump just put it on hold a month after signing it
Trump's unexpected decision comes a week after he stunningly said the U.S. had agreed to purchase diesel from Russia.
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