Trump’s Decision to Waive Russia Sanctions Sparks Outrage in US Congress

The decision by United States President Donald Trump to suspend upcoming sanctions against Russia has sparked criticism from members of Congress, including lawmakers from his own Republican Party.

Trump signed an executive order on Friday, October 16, 2026, indefinitely waiving sanctions that were scheduled to take effect on Sunday. The measures were designed to increase economic pressure on Russia over its ongoing war against Ukraine. <Cite refs={[“turn889193news6″,”turn889193search3”]}/>

The sanctions package, known as the Lindsey Graham Russian Sanctions Act, received overwhelming bipartisan support in the Senate, passing by a vote of 86 to 11.

Republican Senator Thom Tillis criticised the decision, describing it as irresponsible and questioning why the administration would suspend a law that had received strong congressional backing.

Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also condemned the move, while Senator Elizabeth Warren urged lawmakers to take action to reverse the decision.

Trump has defended the waiver on national security grounds. His decision comes amid discussions about a proposed deal involving Russian diesel supplies, which he has linked to efforts to ease rising fuel prices in the United States. <Cite refs={[“turn889193search2″,”turn889193news6”]}/>

However, Congress may face delays in responding because lawmakers are away from Washington until after the November 3 midterm elections.

The decision has renewed debate in Washington over US policy toward Moscow and how the administration should balance energy costs, national security and support for Ukraine.