Trump pauses sanctions package on Russian economy

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday pausing a sweeping sanctions package targeting the Russian economy, citing national interest. The move came two days before the law's implementation deadline. The package, named after the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, aimed to sanction Russian officials, banks, and a shadow tanker fleet, plus impose tariffs on major Russian oil importers. Trump signed the legislation last month but reversed course, following his recent deal with Putin for Russian diesel purchases. The suspension drew bipartisan criticism, with lawmakers warning it capitulates to Putin. It comes as Trump faces low approval ratings and mounting pressure ahead of the Nov. 3 elections, while the White House has not detailed how the pause serves national interests.