Trump suspends Russia sanctions; Congress unlikely to respond quickly

Congressional leaders expressed outrage Saturday after President Donald Trump abruptly suspended Russia sanctions days before they were set to take effect, but no swift legislative response is expected as lawmakers remain on recess until after the November elections. The sanctions package, known as the Graham law, had passed with overwhelming bipartisan support as a show of backing for Ukraine. Republican Senator Thom Tillis called the move "more than irresponsible," while Democrats accused Trump of capitulating to Russian President Vladimir Putin and undermining Ukraine ahead of a difficult winter. Congress remains in recess until after the November 3 midterm elections, making any immediate action unlikely. The suspension follows Trump's recent deal with Putin on Russian diesel imports, which critics called a desperate attempt to lower US fuel prices.