Trump pauses new Russia sanctions package

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order pausing a new sanctions package targeting the Russian economy, telling Congress the delay is in the national interest. The decision comes just two days before the implementation deadline for the legislation. The sanctions were designed to curb financial resources fuelling the war against Ukraine. The pause follows Trump's recent announcement that the US had agreed to purchase diesel from Russia to help lower global energy prices. An AP-NORC poll indicates Trump's approval ratings have dropped to near-historic lows, with voters blaming him for higher prices and his handling of the Iran war. The political shift adds pressure on Republicans ahead of the 3 November midterm elections.