President Donald Trump waived key sanctions and tariffs related to Russia just days before they were set to take effect under a law he signed last month. This included duties on Russian goods and penalties for purchasing Russian oil and gas. Trump stated that the waiver is in the national interest of the United States.
The law was designed to put pressure on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine that started in 2022. However, Trump has been showing support for Moscow while criticizing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The timing of this waiver is significant, as it comes just before the US midterm elections, where Trump’s party is trying to retain control of Congress. Analysts noted that implementing the new measures could have increased oil prices amid rising costs linked to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.
The legislation, backed primarily by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, aimed to impose tariffs up to 100% on goods imported from the top five importers of Russian oil and gas. The waiver will remain until Trump or his officials decide further action is needed. Countries like China and India have expressed concerns regarding the sanctions.
US Representative Don Beyer criticized Trump, claiming the waiver undermines US efforts against Russia and betrays Ukraine. Trump has also faced backlash from some lawmakers over a recent diesel deal with Russia, which they believe would support Russia’s war efforts. Putin’s envoy hailed Trump’s waiver as a significant moment that could have halted US-Russia economic cooperation.
With information from Reuters
