Trump's Russia Sanctions Pause Draws Bipartisan Rebuke

President Donald Trump has suspended planned sanctions against Russia days after a controversial diesel deal with Moscow, drawing sharp criticism from both Democrats and members of his own Republican Party. Republican Senator Thom Tillis called the move "completely irresponsible," while Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Trump gave Putin "his best birthday gift." Several other Republicans, including Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, also condemned the decision. Trump suspended the sanctions by decree on Friday, two days before they were set to take effect, citing "national interest." The package, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, included visa bans on Putin and military officials, plus measures targeting Russia's shadow fleet. The reversal came ahead of midterm elections, with Republicans facing pressure over high fuel prices.