Trump Waives Russia Sanctions and Tariffs Under Graham Act, Easing India's Burden

President Donald Trump has waived sanctions, restrictions, and duties under the newly enacted Graham Act, citing US national interest, providing immediate relief to major buyers of Russian energy like India and China ahead of an October 18 deadline. The waiver covers duties under Sections 112 and 113 of the Act, which had threatened tariffs of up to 100% on goods from the five largest importers of Russian crude oil or gas. Existing sanctions under earlier executive orders remain unaffected, though the US Trade Representative will monitor Russian energy purchases. The decision follows Trump's arrangement with Russia for over 300,000 tonnes of diesel to lower fuel prices before midterm elections. It comes amid tensions with Ukraine, where Russian strikes disrupted power for hundreds of thousands and UN-reported civilian casualties rose 85% in September.