Republican senators criticize Trump's delay of Russia sanctions

Republican senators criticized President Donald Trump's decision to delay sanctions against Russia's energy sector under the Graham Act, calling the move "absolutely irresponsible." The delay comes two weeks before midterm elections, increasing pressure on the party. Senators Tom Tillis, Ted Cruz, Michael McCaul, and John Cornyn condemned the decision, which Trump justified as a way to lower diesel prices. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the 60-day pause allows analysis of global economic impacts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the move encourages further Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Russian officials welcomed the decision, with advisor Kirill Dmitriev calling it a "historic moment." The Graham Act, signed in late September, mandated 500% tariffs on Russian goods and 100% on major Russian oil buyers. Trump's executive order waives these measures until he and officials determine otherwise.