Democrats in Congress slam Trump for lifting Russia sanctions

US Democratic lawmakers criticized President Donald Trump for lifting sanctions against Russia mandated by the Graham law, calling it a concession to the Kremlin. Senator Richard Blumenthal accused Trump of siding with Russia against Congress and US allies. Representative Don Beyer said Trump disregarded lawmakers' will by canceling the sanctions, which included 100% tariffs on major Russian oil buyers and 500% tariffs on Russian energy imports. He called the move capitulation to Putin and a betrayal of Ukraine. Trump justified the decision as in US national interests, while Bloomberg reported the sanctions hindered his efforts to lower diesel prices before midterm elections. Kremlin official Kirill Dmitriev called the move a "historic moment."