In a move that has sparked controversy, U.S. President Donald Trump has waived key sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia, citing the national interests of the United States. The decision, announced through an executive order on Friday, suspends measures that were part of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which Trump signed into law last month. This legislation was intended to intensify economic pressure on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine.
The act authorized up to 100% tariffs on imports from major buyers of Russian oil and natural gas, alongside penalties for countries aiding Russia in evading existing sanctions. Trump’s waiver will remain effective until he or other authorized officials decide further action is required. Under the law, the president can suspend these measures by informing Congress that it aligns with national interests.
The waiver has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers who argue it undermines efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions against Ukraine. They had anticipated the sanctions would curb Moscow’s energy revenues and restrict its access to international markets. The decision comes amid rising scrutiny of Trump’s broader approach to Russia and Ukraine, with critics pointing to his administration’s warmer relations with Moscow and frequent clashes with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Concerns over the potential impact of the proposed sanctions were also raised by countries like China and India, major purchasers of Russian oil, which expressed reservations about the implications for international trade and bilateral relations. The suspension adds uncertainty about when or whether the new sanctions and tariffs will be enacted, as the U.S. continues to weigh economic pressure on Russia against concerns over energy costs and global economic relations.
This decision follows a separate controversy involving a diesel supply arrangement with Russia, defended by Trump as a means to boost fuel supplies and ease global energy prices. Critics have questioned whether this agreement could inadvertently increase revenue for Moscow.