US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order waiving sweeping new sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia, just days before the measures were due to take effect.
The order, signed on Friday, October 16, invokes national interest to suspend key provisions of legislation passed last month. The law aimed to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its ongoing war against Ukraine.
The decision marks a significant shift in Washington’s approach, as the administration seeks to manage energy prices while maintaining its diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
New Law Targeted Russian Energy And Defence Sectors
The legislation, known as the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, authorised penalties against Russian officials, financial institutions, defence interests and oil shipments transported through vessels used to evade existing restrictions.
Furthermore, the law authorised tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods from major importers of Russian oil and natural gas. It also provided for a 500 per cent increase in duties on Russian goods, subject to specified exceptions.
However, Trump used a waiver provision that allows the president to suspend these measures by certifying that doing so serves US national interests. The White House confirmed that the administration submitted the required notification and supporting report to Congress.
Decision Draws Criticism Amid Ukraine War
The decision has drawn criticism from lawmakers who argue that suspending the penalties weakens efforts to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin into ending the war.
Democratic lawmakers said the move undermines congressional efforts to restrict Moscow’s financial resources. Meanwhile, some critics linked the decision to the administration’s recent agreement to purchase Russian diesel to help ease energy prices.
The announcement also comes amid strained relations between Washington and Kyiv. Trump has criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over the lack of progress towards a peace agreement, while Ukraine continues to face Russian attacks.
The administration has directed officials to monitor Russian energy purchases and potential sanctions evasion. The waived measures will remain suspended until the president or relevant officials determine that further action is appropriate.
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