President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday night waiving portions of a bipartisan sanctions law targeting Russia, citing national interest as the justification. The move blocks tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest purchasers of Russian oil and gas, including China, India, and Turkey, which were set to take effect Sunday under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act.
The waivers also halt 500% tariffs on Russian goods and suspend certain other sanctions against Russian financial institutions, government officials, and the country’s "shadow fleet" of tankers used to evade existing restrictions. In his executive order, Trump stated he had submitted a certification to Congress that the waivers are in the national interests of the United States, a provision included in the legislation to allow presidential discretion.
The decision follows Trump’s announcement last week that the U.S. would import Russian diesel to lower domestic energy prices ahead of the November midterm elections. The move has drawn bipartisan criticism, with 20 lawmakers sending a letter Thursday urging full implementation of the sanctions law. Senator Lindsey Graham, the late Republican from South Carolina who championed the bill, had sought stricter measures to pressure Russia into ending its war in Ukraine.
Policy Context and Scope
The Graham Act, signed into law last month, was designed to target Russia’s economy by restricting financial flows to Moscow. It granted the president authority to levy tariffs on major importers of Russian oil and gas, including China and India, which have continued purchasing Russian energy despite Western sanctions. The law also included sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin, senior government officials, banks, and financial institutions.
Trump’s waivers apply until administration officials determine further action is appropriate, directing officials to monitor countries importing Russian energy or evading sanctions. The executive order was posted on the White House website late Friday, with no immediate explanation provided for how the waivers serve national interests.
Political and International Reactions
The president’s decision has triggered a bipartisan backlash, with lawmakers from both parties expressing concern that the move could undermine efforts to isolate Russia economically. Allies have also criticized the import of Russian diesel, warning it could indirectly support Moscow’s war effort by stabilizing Russia’s energy revenue.
Trump’s approval ratings have declined in recent polling, with some surveys indicating disapproval of his handling of energy prices and foreign policy. The administration has not publicly detailed how the waivers align with broader strategic goals, though the White House noted the certification had been submitted to Congress.
The sanctions law had been scheduled to take effect Sunday, but Trump’s executive order indefinitely delays its enforcement. The president retains the authority to reinstate the measures or adjust their scope at any time.