Trump waives several Russia sanctions as new US law takes effect

Donald Trump has used an executive order to withhold several sanctions against Russia that Congress recently passed in response to its war on Ukraine. The move limits a law he signed in September, prompting concern among lawmakers and US allies about whether Washington will maintain pressure on Moscow.

The law allows tariffs of up to 100% on the five biggest buyers of Russian oil and gas, including China and India, and targets Putin, Russian officials, financial institutions and the so-called shadow fleet of tankers. Twenty lawmakers urged Trump to apply the measures fully, arguing they could press Putin towards peace talks. The decision follows Trump’s proposal to import Russian diesel to lower US energy prices ahead of November’s midterm elections.