US President Trump Suspends New Sanctions Against Russia
President Donald Trump has delayed sweeping Russia sanctions approved by Congress, citing rising fuel prices and a diesel fuel agreement with Russia.
US President Donald Trump has signed a decree delaying the implementation of new Russia sanctions passed by Congress, citing national interests and an agreement for purchasing diesel fuel from Russia. The decision has drawn international backlash and criticism from members of Congress.
US President Donald Trump, in a decree issued on Friday, suspended sweeping new Russia sanctions approved by Congress. Signed last month and aiming to target countries like China and India as well, the legislation was intended to cut off Russia's sources of revenue while it continues its war in Ukraine.
When questioned by reporters on Saturday evening, President Trump defended the move, stating that the decision was very good for the country and the world. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio explained that a 60-day period was needed to examine pressures on the global energy market and the economic impact of the decision.
The decision came after the US announced an agreement with Vladimir Putin regarding the release of hundreds of thousands of tons of Russian diesel fuel to the global market. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that lifting the sanctions was wrong and only benefited Russia.
The decision also triggered criticism from American lawmakers such as Mike Lawler, Dan Sullivan, Richard Blumenthal, Ted Cruz, and Thom Tillis.