WASHINGTON — President Trump’s recent decision to waive sanctions on Russia, set to take effect shortly, has sparked severe backlash among lawmakers. The sanctions, part of a bipartisan legislative effort to support Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, had been passed overwhelmingly by Congress.
On Friday, Trump signed an executive order affecting the Lindsey Graham Russian Sanctions Act, which aimed to impose significant tariffs on nations importing substantial amounts of Russian oil and energy products. This law was promoted as a means to restrict the funding fueling Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.
Following the announcement, Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) criticized Trump’s decision as “beyond irresponsible,” stating that it undermines a law that the Senate passed with a significant majority of 86-11. “It’s unconscionable that this administration is capitulating to a Russian dictator,” Tillis added. He suggested that Trump should address rising energy prices through diplomatic efforts regarding Iran rather than by engaging with Vladimir Putin.
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) echoed Tillis’s sentiments, accusing Trump of “thumbing his nose” at Congress and enabling further Russian aggression. She advocated for legislative action to reverse the sanction waiver.
Trump’s waiver of the sanctions comes as Ukraine braces for a harsh winter, amidst ongoing attacks on its energy infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, despite having a complicated relationship with Trump, encouraged supporters to advocate in favor of reinstating the sanctions.
Currently, any legislative response remains uncertain, as both the House and Senate are in recess until after the upcoming midterm elections on November 3. Trump waived the sanctions indefinitely, citing national security concerns. Congressional action to counter his decision, however, may not materialize until lawmakers reconvene.
The bipartisan concern about Trump’s approach deepened following a proposed diesel deal with Russia. As gas prices have surged in various regions, Trump announced a commitment from Russia to supply significant amounts of fuel to the U.S. This development has prompted vows from members of Congress to halt the agreement.
Representative Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), who has been vocal in opposing the Graham bill, introduced new legislation aimed at blocking Trump’s diesel deal with Putin. He called the arrangement “corrupt” and detrimental to U.S. values, emphasizing the need for increased pressure on the Kremlin.
As the political landscape shifts in Washington, the implications of Trump’s sanctions waiver and energy agreements with Russia remain uncertain in the lead-up to the elections.
