Trump Halts New Russia Sanctions Days Before Deadline, Citing National Interest

Key points

• Trump signed an executive order on October 16, 2026, waiving the Graham Act, which he had signed into law in September.
• The waiver suspends tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest importers of Russian crude oil or gas, as well as sanctions against Russian officials and financial institutions.
• Trump certified to Congress that the waiver was in the 'national interests' of the United States, though the order did not specify the exact reasons.
• The decision follows a controversial deal to import Russian diesel to lower domestic fuel prices ahead of the November midterm elections.
• The waiver has triggered immediate bipartisan condemnation in Washington and deepened tensions with Ukraine, while European leaders have moved to strengthen their own sanctions against Moscow.

Background

This move follows a series of recent actions by the Trump administration that have eased pressure on Russia, including a deal to import Russian diesel and restrictions on Starlink satellite internet service in Ukraine. The Graham Act, named after former Senator Lindsey Graham, was passed in September 2026 and was set to take effect on October 18, 2026. The waiver has intensified tensions with Ukraine and Congress, as well as European allies, who have expressed concern about the US shifting its position on Russia.

How outlets are covering it

Axios and CNN both report that the waiver has triggered immediate bipartisan condemnation in Washington. Axios notes that the move puts Republican candidates in the position of having to defend the president's warmer relationship with Russia, while CNN highlights that the waiver has deepened tensions with Ukraine and European allies. Both outlets emphasize that the decision follows a series of recent actions by the Trump administration that have eased pressure on Russia, including a deal to import Russian diesel and restrictions on Starlink satellite internet service in Ukraine. However, Axios focuses more on the political implications for the midterm elections, while CNN emphasizes the impact on US-Ukraine relations and the broader geopolitical context.

Why it matters

The waiver of the Graham Act represents a significant shift in US policy toward Russia, potentially undermining efforts to pressure Moscow over its war in Ukraine. The decision has triggered immediate bipartisan condemnation in Washington and deepened tensions with Ukraine, while European leaders have moved to strengthen their own sanctions against Moscow. The move also has significant implications for the November midterm elections, as it puts Republican candidates in the position of having to defend the president's warmer relationship with Russia. Additionally, the waiver may have broader geopolitical implications, as it could signal a shift in US foreign policy and potentially impact relations with other countries that are major buyers of Russian oil, such as China and India.

What to watch

The Trump administration will likely continue to monitor the situation and may issue further waivers or adjustments to the Graham Act in the coming weeks. The decision may also have implications for US-Ukraine relations, as well as broader geopolitical dynamics, as European leaders move to strengthen their own sanctions against Moscow. The midterm elections in November will also be a key factor, as the waiver may impact the political landscape and the positions of Republican candidates. Additionally, the administration may face further pressure from Congress and other stakeholders to reverse the waiver or take other actions to address the situation.