Trump Faces Russia Sanctions Backlash

Trump signed an executive order Friday pausing new Russia-related sanctions and tariffs shortly before they were due to begin. The waiver followed a separate decision to permit Russian diesel exports, including a deal for more than 300,000 tons that the administration said would ease fuel pressure. Congress had passed the Lindsey GrahamLindsey GrahamAmerican politician and attorney (1955–2026) sanctions law with broad bipartisan support, and Trump signed it in September. The law was designed to penalize Russia and those doing business with it. Trump and the White House said the pause keeps peace talks alive. Critics in both parties objected, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called it a historic mistake. The administration says it can impose the measures later.