nuOct 17, 2026, 05:07

Trump drops Russian sanctions and tariffs approved by Congress

President Trump has unexpectedly blocked new sanctions and import tariffs against Russia, citing national interest despite previous congressional approval. The decision is widely viewed as an effort to stabilize energy prices ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

President Trump has issued an executive order to pause the implementation of new sanctions and import tariffs against Russia that were scheduled to take effect this Sunday. Despite signing the Graham Act into law last September with bipartisan support from Congress, Trump stated that halting these measures, which include taxes on Russian oil and gas, is currently in the national interest of the United States. Analysts suggest this delay aims to curb rising fuel prices before the November 3 midterm elections, as many voters are concerned about the cost of gasoline and diesel.

The legislation, named in honor of the late Senator Graham, was intended to penalize countries like China and India for purchasing Russian energy. However, the decision follows a controversial agreement by the Trump administration to import substantial amounts of Russian diesel to stabilize domestic prices. Tensions have also escalated between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as the U.S. president criticized Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, further complicating the geopolitical landscape surrounding the stalled sanctions.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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