Donald Trump waives tariffs on Russian energy exports ahead of midterms

Graham law: The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 is federal legislation that authorizes expanded sanctions, restrictions, and tariffs targeting Russian energy exports, sanctions evasion, and related activities while extending certain Iran sanctions measures. Trump signed the bill in mid-September 2026 and subsequently waived key tariff and sanction provisions days before they were set to take effect. Donald Trump: Donald Trump is the President of the United States. He signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 into law in September and recently exercised waiver authority under the legislation to suspend tariffs and sanctions tied to Russian energy exports. The decision supports his administration's focus on domestic energy costs ahead of midterm elections. US Government: The US Government, through the executive branch, oversees the implementation and potential waiver of sanctions, tariffs, and trade restrictions established by Congress. In this case, President Trump acted on behalf of the administration to invoke waiver provisions in the Graham Act, citing national interest considerations related to fuel prices. Policy Waiver: President Trump invoked a national interest waiver clause in the Graham Act to suspend the application of mandated tariffs and sanctions on Russian energy-related trade. Economic Priority: The waivers address concerns that the tariffs could hinder efforts to reduce diesel prices for US consumers ahead of midterm elections. Legislative Background: The Graham Act, championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, codifies and expands sanctions authorities against Russia while providing the president discretionary waiver powers.