Trump pauses Russia sanctions package, citing US national interest

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday pausing a sweeping new Russia sanctions package passed by Congress, citing US national interest. The move suspends legislation named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham that targeted financial resources fueling Russia's war in Ukraine. Trump had signed the bill last month but reversed course, with the White House submitting a report to Congress without immediate explanation. The decision follows Trump's announcement of a deal with Russia to purchase diesel, drawing bipartisan criticism for potentially aiding Moscow's war effort. The sanctions had become a campaign issue for Senator Darline Graham, Lindsey Graham's sister, who acknowledged the president's discretion in implementation. The pause comes amid Trump's low approval ratings and mounting pressure before the November 3 election.