Trump waives several Russia sanctions as new US law takes effect
President Donald Trump has issued an executive order to block several sanctions against Russia that were recently passed by Congress. The move has sparked bipartisan backlash, as lawmakers argue the sanctions are necessary to pressure Russia regarding the war in Ukraine.
Why it matters
This decision highlights a significant conflict between the executive and legislative branches over foreign policy and the administration's approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Image source, Reuters By Max Matza Published 12 minutes ago US President Donald Trump has used his presidential authority to block numerous sanctions on Russia that were recently passed by the US Congress in an effort to punish the country for its war on Ukraine.
In an executive order on Friday night, Trump said that it is in the US "national interests" to withhold some of the sanctions. Trump signed the sanctions bill into law in September, and it was due to take effect on Sunday.
It comes days after Trump said the US would import Russian diesel in an effort to bring down US energy prices before the midterm elections in November, which will decide which party controls Congress.
The plan shocked lawmakers, and has triggered a bipartisan backlash.
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