Trump Exempts Russia From New US Sanctions, Citing National Interest

US President Donald Trump has exempted Russia from new sanctions, tariffs, and restrictions outlined in the Graham Act, citing "the national interest of the United States" in a decree issued Friday, October 16. The legislation, enacted in mid-September, targeted Russia's shadow fleet and senior officials, including Vladimir Putin, and empowered Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major importers of Russian oil and gas, such as China and India. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had called the package a "powerful tool" to force peace. The move follows recent US shifts, including an energy deal with Moscow and reported restrictions on intelligence sharing and Starlink services for Ukraine. Zelensky says his team is in talks with American negotiators, with a potential meeting expected soon.