Trump Waives Russian Sanctions and Tariffs Before Deadline

President Donald Trump issued an executive order late Friday waiving parts of the Graham Act, a newly enacted sanctions package against Russia. This order exempts key provisions that required increased duties on Russian imports and tariffs on countries purchasing Russian crude oil or gas. The move preserves existing sanctions on Russia while waiving new ones, just two days before the act's implementation deadline. Trump's administration had signed the Russia sanctions bill into law just two days after its passage in the House on September 16, 2025.

The Graham Act, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, aimed to penalize Russia for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine by targeting its economy. The legislation required increased duties on Russian goods by up to 500% and tariffs of up to 100% on certain countries like China and India. Trump's executive order, however, waives these specific requirements while maintaining existing sanctions.

The decision has sparked both support and criticism. Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy for Russian President Vladimir Putin, referred to the waiver as a 'historic moment' for U.S.-Russia relations. Conversely, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal condemned Trump's move, arguing it aligned with Russian interests and against American and European allies. This matter holds significance as it was made just weeks before the upcoming midterm elections, highlighting high fuel prices as a voter concern.