President Donald Trump is facing bipartisan criticism after waiving sanctions against Russia and countries that buy its oil, while pursuing a deal intended to increase Russian diesel exports and ease high U.S. The sanctions had been scheduled to take effect Sunday under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, which Trump signed in September after Congress approved it by an 86-11 Senate vote.
Trump’s executive order came days after he announced an arrangement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to allow Russian diesel to reach world markets. Trump has also cited national-security concerns and said the decision could be reconsidered, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the administration would use 60 days to assess the economic effects of imposing the sanctions and related tariffs.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright described access to diesel exports as an incentive for Russia to reduce its war against Ukraine, while Rubio said the fuel would have been sold regardless and that the arrangement could give Moscow a reason to reduce the conflict.
Republicans and Democrats have condemned the waiver. Ted Cruz called the decision a mistake. Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer said it was supporting Russia’s economy, and Rep. Gregory Meeks introduced legislation to block the diesel deal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged support for the sanctions as Russia continues attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure and Ukraine resumes strikes on Russian refineries.
Congress is in recess until after Election Day, leaving lawmakers with no immediate opportunity to challenge the policy.