Trump Pauses Sweeping Russia Sanctions Bill Passed by Congress

President Donald Trump signed a sanctions package targeting the Russian economy that had been championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, but he issued an executive order on Friday to pause its implementation. In the order, the president said he was waiving many of the sanctions, restrictions and duties on Russia, describing the pause as being in the national interest.

The move comes amid a growing public dispute between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with the president recently questioning Ukraine's leadership and suggesting a change was needed. By delaying the sanctions, Trump has effectively put on hold a congressional effort that was intended to increase economic pressure on Moscow.

Congress passed the legislation with bipartisan support in both chambers, aiming to tighten financial and trade constraints on Russia. The president’s decision to suspend the measures has drawn criticism from lawmakers who argue that the sanctions are essential to deter further Russian aggression.

Why It Matters

The sanctions are a key tool for the U.S. and its allies to counter Russian aggression, and the pause could affect transatlantic coordination on security and economic policy.