Trump lifts Russia sanctions, Moscow welcomes move

US President Donald Trump has lifted sweeping US sanctions and tariffs against Russia, its energy sector, and senior political officials via an executive order, a move welcomed in Moscow. The White House issued the order Friday, with Trump stating the waiver serves America's national interest. The action suspends measures from the Graham Act, which was set to take effect October 18 and included potential 100% tariffs on major Russian oil buyers like China and India. The decision follows a recent Trump-Putin agreement allowing Russian diesel exports in exchange for sanctions relief. Ukrainian President Zelensky called it a "gift" to Putin, while critics accused Trump of capitulation, though Moscow hailed it as a "historic moment."