WASHINGTON, United States: US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday waiving new sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia, weeks after approving legislation intended to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its war in Ukraine.
The order suspends measures introduced under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which Trump signed into law on September 18.
The legislation authorised tariffs of up to 100 percent on major purchasers of Russian oil and gas, alongside restrictions targeting Russian officials, financial institutions and energy operations.
Trump Cites National Interests
Trump invoked presidential waiver powers, stating that suspending the restrictions served US national interests.
The executive order also provides for monitoring Russian energy purchases and activities involving sanctions evasion.
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Existing sanctions imposed under separate presidential authorities remain unaffected.
Russian Diesel Agreement
The decision follows an agreement between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin allowing Russian diesel exports under sanctions relief.
The arrangement was intended to ease pressure on international fuel markets amid elevated energy prices.
However, several American lawmakers have criticised the agreement, arguing that additional Russian energy revenues could support Moscow’s military operations in Ukraine.
Ukraine Relations Under Pressure
The decision has further strained relations between Washington and Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised the sanctions relief, while Ukrainian forces have continued targeting Russian oil infrastructure.
The measures had also been intended to increase pressure on countries purchasing Russian energy, including major Asian importers.
The White House order allows the administration to reconsider the waivers if circumstances change.
The decision highlights Washington’s competing priorities of managing energy prices and maintaining economic pressure on Russia as the war in Ukraine continues.
