Trump waives tariffs on major buyers of Russian oil, delaying sanctions law

President Trump waived new sanctions and 100% tariffs on major buyers of Russian oil late Friday, delaying the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia Act days before it was set to take effect, citing U.S. national interests and efforts to ease energy prices. The waivers, invoked via executive order, also suspended 500% tariffs on Russian goods and other sanctions, with the president notifying Congress. The law targeted top importers like China, India, and Turkey, and the waivers remain until officials decide further action is needed. Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev praised the decision as historic, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called it "unfortunate," saying it rewards Russia. The move follows eased diesel sanctions and an energy ceasefire push, drawing bipartisan congressional criticism as a "betrayal" of Ukraine.