US President Donald Trump has waived the application of a new package of Russia-related sanctions and trade measures, saying the decision was in the national interest of the United States. He signed the executive order on Friday, October 16, shortly before provisions of the Graham Act were due to take effect.
The law authorizes the president to waive its sanctions, restrictions or duties after certifying to Congress that doing so serves US national interests. The order pauses new measures under that act; it does not erase every existing US restriction on Russia.
The move drew criticism from Ukraine and European allies, who have argued that easing pressure could benefit Moscow while its war against Ukraine continues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged supporters to defend the new sanctions after the order was announced.
The decision comes amid widening tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy over Washington’s approach to the war and recent energy arrangements involving Russia. Trump has framed the policy shift as a way to address energy costs, while critics say the pause weakens a tool intended to pressure the Kremlin. The waiver has therefore become another flashpoint in the debate over US support for Kyiv and how to end the conflict.
