Trump pauses new Russia sanctions package, citing national interest

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday pausing a sweeping new Russia sanctions package passed by Congress, citing U.S. national interest. The move halts legislation named after the late Sen. Lindsey Graham that targeted financial resources fueling Russia's war in Ukraine. Trump had signed the bill last month but reversed course, following his recent announcement of a U.S. diesel purchase agreement with Russia. The White House did not immediately explain the national interest rationale, though Trump has increasingly criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for not negotiating an end to the fighting. The sanctions had bipartisan support and were championed by Graham's sister, Sen. Darline Graham, who is running for his seat. The pause comes as Trump's approval ratings near historic lows ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections.