Trump defends Russia sanctions waiver as 'good for the world' despite bipartisan criticism

President Donald Trump defended his decision to exempt Russia from new U.S. sanctions, calling it "good for the country" and "good for the world," despite facing bipartisan backlash over the move. Trump signed an executive order on October 16 waiving key provisions of the Graham Act, which authorized 100% tariffs on the top five purchasers of Russian oil, including China and India. The waiver remains in effect until further presidential or secretarial determination. The decision drew sharp criticism from lawmakers, including Senator Darline Graham, who said she doesn't trust Russia, and Senator Thom Tillis, who called it "beyond irresponsible." Senator Elizabeth Warren accused Trump of enabling Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine.