Trump Waives Russia Sanctions Amid Diesel Deal

President Donald Trump waived key new tariffs and sanctions under the Russia-focused Graham Act shortly before they were due to take effect, citing U.S. national interests and seeking to ease fuel costs ahead of the midterm elections. The waiver pauses the new measures but leaves Trump authority to reinstate them; existing sanctions remain in force. Separately, a Treasury license allows Russian diesel imports through April 2027, following an agreement with Vladimir Putin for Russia to supply large quantities of diesel to global markets. The decision drew criticism from lawmakers in both parties, who said easing pressure could help sustain Russia’s war against Ukraine, and from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Kremlin welcomed the move and urged greater economic cooperation, while the administration said the diesel deal could lower costs for American farmers, truckers and families.