Trump Waives Russian Sanctions to Lower Diesel Prices

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on October 16, 2026, waiving the majority of sanctions and tariffs mandated by the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act. The waiver pauses duties of up to 500% on Russian goods and 100% tariffs on the five largest importers of Russian energy, including India and China. Trump certified the move as being in the national interest, specifically to combat soaring domestic diesel prices ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

The decision follows a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to import millions of tonnes of diesel into global markets. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the waiver as a 60-day pause to analyze the global economic impact of the sanctions, noting that allies like India cannot pivot their energy portfolios immediately. Energy Secretary Chris Wright characterized the deal as a "carrot to try to end a war."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the move as a betrayal and a "gift" to Putin, arguing it rewards Russian aggression. Tensions between Washington and Kyiv escalated as Ukraine reported disruptions to Starshield satellite services and a shortage of Patriot missiles. In response, Zelenskyy appealed to the European Union for 70 billion euros in additional aid. While the EU is preparing a 22nd sanctions package against Russia, the Trump administration has proposed that Europe resume purchasing Russian gas as an economic incentive for a peace settlement.

Bipartisan criticism erupted in the U.S. Congress, with lawmakers from both parties calling the waiver a capitulation to Putin. Some Republicans, including Senator Thom Tillis and Senator Ted Cruz, labeled the action irresponsible, while Democrats accused the president of undermining congressional authority.