Trump suspends new Russia sanctions package, citing national interest

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday suspending a sweeping Russia sanctions package he had signed into law last month, citing national interest, just two days before the law's implementation deadline. The legislation, named after the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, aimed to sanction Russian officials, banks, and a shadow tanker fleet, and impose tariffs on major importers of Russian oil. Congressional Democrats condemned the move, with Sen. Richard Blumenthal accusing Trump of "sucking up to Vladimir Putin." The suspension follows Trump's recent agreement to purchase Russian diesel to lower global energy prices, a deal criticized by both parties. Trump's approval ratings are near historic lows ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections, and the decision drew sharp rebukes from lawmakers who said it undermines Ukraine.