Trump pauses 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 aimed to cut financial flows fueling Russia's war in Ukraine. Trump had signed the bill last month but reversed course, one week after announcing a deal to purchase Russian diesel to lower global energy prices. The White House did not explain the national interest rationale, though Trump has increasingly blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for failing to negotiate an end to the fighting. The sanctions had bipartisan support and were championed by Graham's sister, Sen. Darline Graham, who is running to keep his seat. The pause comes as Trump's approval ratings near historic lows ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections, with Republicans facing pressure over inflation and the Iran war.