Trump waives broad new Russia sanctions and tariffs under Graham Act, citing national interest

• The waived measures included tariffs up to 100% on goods from top five Russian oil/gas importers and penalties for countries buying Russian energy within 30 days of enactment
• Major Russian oil buyers China and India had raised concerns, with Beijing opposing 'long-arm jurisdiction' and India warning of bilateral impact
• Democratic Representative Don Beyer criticized the waiver as 'surrender to Putin' that betrays Ukraine, while some Republicans also opposed Trump's recent diesel deal with Russia

Summary

Key Development:

President Trump waived major Russia-related sanctions and tariffs under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, just days before implementation. The executive order, released Friday, cited "national interests" as justification.

Main Provisions Waived:

• Tariffs up to 100% on goods from the five largest importers of Russian crude oil or gas
• Penalties for countries purchasing Russian oil and gas
• Sanctions targeting nations helping Russia evade existing restrictions

Political Context:

The waiver comes weeks before midterm elections, where Republicans face a narrow majority battle in Congress. The original legislation, backed by late Senator Lindsey Graham, was signed by Trump in mid-September 2026 to pressure Russia over its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The law permits presidential waivers if deemed in national interest after congressional notification.

International Impact:

Major Russian oil buyers China and India had expressed concerns about the sanctions. Beijing opposed the "long-arm jurisdiction," while India warned of potential damage to bilateral relations. The waiver alleviates these tensions but risks further inflating prices already elevated by Trump's broader tariff policies.

Political Backlash:

Democratic Representative Don Beyer criticized the move as a "surrender to Putin" that betrays Ukraine. Trump has faced bipartisan criticism, including from some Republicans, over recent Russia-friendly actions, including a diesel deal that lawmakers argue funds Russia's war efforts. Critics note Trump's increasing criticism of Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and suggestions for Kyiv's leadership change.

Duration:

The waiver remains effective until Trump or senior officials determine "further action is appropriate."