Trump suspends Russia tariffs to cut diesel prices before US midterms

President Trump has suspended sweeping tariffs and sanctions on Russian energy exports, citing national interests as his administration seeks to lower diesel prices ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. The suspension, enacted via a presidential decision late Friday, halts enforcement of measures mandated by the Graham Act, which required 100% tariffs on goods from major Russian oil buyers and 500% tariffs on Russian energy imports. The deadline for implementation was October 18. The move follows a recent agreement with Vladimir Putin to boost global diesel supply, but has drawn bipartisan criticism from senators who argue it undermines pressure on Moscow over Ukraine. The waiver also averts potential trade disputes with China, India, and Turkey.