Trump freezes Russia sanctions for 60 days as backlash grows
Why it matters: The pause delays a law targeting Russian oil buyers and deepens strains with Ukraine as US midterms near.
President Donald Trump halted broad new sanctions and tariffs on Russia for 60 days, pausing measures Congress passed in September just before they were due to take effect. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the White House wants time to assess the impact on the US and global economies, especially energy prices. Trump separately argued the move could keep Russia engaged in talks over the war in Ukraine. The delay has drawn criticism from both parties, with Republican senators Thom Tillis and Ted Cruz calling it a mistake. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned easing pressure on Moscow would help fund Russia’s war effort.
Sources
- The Straits TimesTier 180% reliableRead →28 hours ago