Saturday, October 17, 2026 - President Donald Trump has halted major new sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia just two days before the measures were due to take effect, triggering fresh tensions with lawmakers and raising concerns about Washington’s strategy toward the war in Ukraine.
On Friday, October 16, Trump signed an executive order waiving key provisions of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, citing US national interests. The legislation, which Trump signed into law in September, was designed to increase economic pressure on Moscow and restrict revenue that could support its war effort.
The suspended measures included proposed tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, alongside additional sanctions and restrictions targeting individuals and entities connected to Russia.
The decision drew criticism from lawmakers who argued that easing pressure on Moscow could weaken efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also warned that reducing sanctions could encourage Russia to continue its attacks. Meanwhile, Russian officials welcomed the move as an opportunity to improve economic cooperation with Washington.
Trump’s decision now places renewed focus on the future of US relations with Russia and the level of American support for Ukraine. The administration has defended the waiver on national-interest grounds, while critics question whether the move will weaken Washington’s negotiating position and undermine coordination with European allies.
Although existing sanctions imposed under earlier executive orders remain in place, the latest decision gives the administration greater flexibility over future penalties. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the move opens a path toward diplomatic engagement or deepens divisions between Washington, Kyiv and its European partners.
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