Trump Waives Russia Sanctions Citing National Interests
President Donald Trump issued an executive order late Friday night waiving new sanctions on Russia, declaring the decision in the national interests of the United States. The move halts the implementation of sweeping levies under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, a bill Trump signed in September. The White House released the text of the order, which details the implementation of the legislation named for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham. The act imposed broad new restrictions on Russia and nations that conduct business with it, including buyers of its oil. The order notes that the law permits the president to waive sanctions provisions, restrictions on persons, and duties. Trump stated in the document that he submitted a certification to Congress confirming the waiver serves U.S. national interests.
President Donald Trump issued an executive order late Friday night waiving new sanctions on Russia, declaring the decision in the national interests of the United States. The move halts the implementation of sweeping levies under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, a bill Trump signed in September. The White House released the text of the order, which details the implementation of the legislation named for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham. The act imposed broad new restrictions on Russia and nations that conduct business with it, including buyers of its oil. The order notes that the law permits the president to waive sanctions provisions, restrictions on persons, and duties. Trump stated in the document that he submitted a certification to Congress confirming the waiver serves U.S. national interests.
The decision eases American pressure on Russia despite bipartisan opposition. It follows a week in which Trump struck a surprise deal allowing Russia to sell diesel internationally, a move condemned by both Republicans and Democrats. The waiver also complicates the midterm campaign for Republican candidates, who must now defend the president's warmer relationship with a country many voters view as an enemy.
Democratic lawmakers quickly criticized the executive order. Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) posted on X that the action betrays Ukrainian partners and defies congressional intent to punish Russia for its illegal war of aggression. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) said on X that the waivers prioritize appeasing Vladimir Putin over national security, calling the action craven and cowardly. Blumenthal expressed hope that his Republican colleagues would join in condemning the decision.
The waiver concludes a period of rapid shifts in U.S.-Russia relations. Over the past few days, Trump has eased pressure on multiple fronts, including a dispute over Ukraine's use of Starlink to defend against Russian munitions and a public denial of Russian involvement in the Iran war. These actions mark a significant shift in America's stance toward Russia.