Trump suspends Russia sanctions package, citing US interests

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday, October 16, 2026, suspending a broad package of new sanctions against Russia, citing US national interest. The move reverses his previous threats toward Vladimir Putin regarding the war in Ukraine. The suspended sanctions were part of the "Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026," which Trump had signed on September 18. The legislation targeted Russian officials, banks, and the shadow tanker fleet, aiming to cut resources funding Moscow's war effort. The decision drew criticism from Democrats and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The announcement came a week after the US agreed to purchase diesel from Russia to lower global energy prices. EU commissioners stated they remain committed to Ukraine and will not lift their own sanctions. The White House did not immediately explain how the suspension serves US interests.