Trump blocks Russia sanctions, defying Congress over Ukraine aid

President Donald Trump announced he will not impose many sanctions on Russia that were due to take effect, undermining bipartisan congressional legislation aimed at aiding Ukraine and pressuring Moscow's economy. Trump issued a waiver on Oct. 16, citing U.S. national interests, after recently striking a deal with Vladimir Putin to import Russian diesel to lower American fuel prices before the midterm elections. The blocked sanctions, named the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, would have imposed up to 100% tariffs on top Russian energy importers. The decision follows Trump's escalating feud with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who blamed Russian oil refinery strikes for rising U.S. pump prices. Lawmakers from both parties have sharply criticized the move, with Rep. Jake Auchincloss calling it "shameful and dangerous," as experts attribute fuel price spikes primarily to Trump's war against Iran.