US explains Trump's 60-day pause on Russia sanctions

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Trump delayed new Russia sanctions for 60 days to analyze their impact on the global economy, according to a report on October 17. Rubio stated the president wants time to assess how sanctions and tariffs would affect both the global economy and the U.S. economy. He noted restrictions involve many countries, citing conflicts affecting energy prices, including with Iran and Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. Trump signed an executive order on October 16 suspending new Russia sanctions under a law passed by Congress last month, citing national interest. The law, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, also extended existing Iran sanctions. Lawmakers from both parties criticized the decision.