Trump Exempts Russia From New Sanctions; Rubio Defends 60-Day Pause

President Trump signed a decree Friday exempting Russia from new US sanctions, a decision Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended as a 60-day pause to analyze their global economic impact. The move has drawn sharp criticism from Ukraine and Republican lawmakers. Rubio explained the sanctions, part of the Graham Act targeting Russia's energy sector, also include tariffs affecting other nations like India. He stated the president wants time to assess the effects on the world and US economies before proceeding with implementation. The exemption comes amid rising oil prices and concerns over domestic fuel costs ahead of the November midterm elections. Rubio is traveling abroad, including visits to Uzbekistan and India, while the US remains engaged in conflicts with Iran and Ukraine.