President Donald Trump waived key Russia-related U.S. sanctions and tariffs days before they were set to take effect under a law he signed last month. The executive order, released by the White House on Friday, cited national interest as the primary reason for the waiver, which includes duties on Russian goods and penalties for purchasing its oil and gas.
Trump Waives Sanctions Ahead of Implementation
The waiver applies to measures outlined in the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which Trump signed in mid-September. The legislation targeted countries importing Russian crude oil or gas, imposing tariffs up to 100% within 30 days on the five largest importers, as well as nations aiding Russia in evading sanctions.
Trump’s certification stated the waiver serves U.S. national interests, remaining in effect until further action is deemed appropriate by the president or his officials.
The decision comes amid Trump’s recent warming toward Russia and public criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, including suggestions that Kyiv needs a new leader. Analysts noted the sanctions could have risked raising oil prices even further during a period of raised energy costs largely attributed to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.
The waiver was announced weeks before the US midterm elections, where Trump’s Republican Party seeks to retain control of Congress.
Law Aims to Pressure Russia Over Ukraine Invasion
The legislation was primarily championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, designed to increase pressure on Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The law targeted nations purchasing Russian energy, including major buyers like China and India, which have voiced concerns about potential economic repercussions and sovereignty issues.
Beijing has opposed what it terms “long-arm jurisdiction” lacking international legal basis, while India warned tariffs might strain bilateral relations.
Republican and Democratic lawmakers criticized Trump’s waiver, arguing it undermines congressional intent to penalize Russia for its actions in Ukraine. U.S. Representative Don Beyer, a Democrat from Virginia, accused Trump of surrendering to Russian President Vladimir Putin and betraying Ukrainian partners.
The waiver follows Trump’s recent agreement to lift sanctions on Russian diesel exports, but it was condemned by lawmakers as funding Russia’s war effort.
