Trump blocks Russia sanctions in shift welcomed by Moscow
President Donald Trump blocked new US sanctions and tariffs on Russia two days before they were set to take effect, citing American national interest. The executive order, signed October 16, waives measures under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The waived legislation would have imposed tariffs up to 100% on goods from major importers of Russian crude oil and gas, and targeted Russian officials, financial institutions, and Moscow's shadow fleet. Russia welcomed the decision, with sovereign wealth fund chief Kirill Dmitriev calling it historic for economic cooperation. The move follows Trump's recent diesel deal with Vladimir Putin and comes amid rising tensions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who recently referenced "real leaders" at an EU summit.