Trump waives Russia sanctions before they take effect under new law
by@Reuters
Summary
On October 16, 2026, President Donald Trump announced the waiver of several Russia-related sanctions and tariffs just days before they were set to take effect under a recently signed law, the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. This legislation aimed to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from the top five countries buying Russian crude oil or gas. Trump's decision aligns with his warming relations with Russia and criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, which has raised concerns among countries like India, a significant buyer of Russian oil, regarding the implications of the sanctions. In his order, Trump stated that the waiver is in the national interests of the United States.
Analysis
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 mid-September. Trump issued an executive order on October 16 waiving many sanctions, restrictions, and duties under the act before they could take effect, citing national interests. Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026: The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 is legislation backed primarily by the late Senator Lindsey Graham. It targets the five largest importers of Russian crude oil or gas and countries assisting Russia in evading sanctions with tariffs of up to 100%. Trump is now waiving many of its provisions via executive order. Foreign Policy: Trump has been warming toward Russia while publicly criticizing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and suggesting Ukraine needs new leadership. Executive Action: Trump submitted a certification to Congress that the waiver serves the national interests of the United States. International Response: Countries such as India, a major buyer of Russian oil, have raised concerns about the sanctions legislation.
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