WASHINGTON – In a surprising and controversial move, President Donald Trump recently decided to waive sanctions on Russia, a decision that has ignited outrage among members of Congress. This legislation, which was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, aimed to bolster American backing for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle expressed their frustration on social media following Trump’s announcement late Friday. This latest development is part of a broader pattern of actions by the Republican president that many believe have drawn the United States closer to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Of particular note is Trump’s recent diesel deal with Russia, intended to address escalating gas prices that are affecting the upcoming midterm elections on November 3.
“Beyond irresponsible,” commented Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated hope that the now-voided sanctions could be reinstated. Tillis further questioned, “What part of enforcing a law passed 86-11 by the Senate does the President and his advisors not understand?” He described the decision as “unconscionable,” asserting that it capitulates to a “Russian dictator” who has unlawfully invaded Ukraine.
Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) echoed this sentiment, referencing the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who had tirelessly advocated for the sanctions before his death this summer. The legislation is formally known as the Lindsey Graham Russian Sanctions Act.
On the Democratic side, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) condemned Trump’s actions, arguing that he is “thumbing his nose” at Congress and enabling Putin’s aggressive actions. She called for her colleagues to take immediate action to reverse this course.
As Ukraine prepares for a harsh winter, grappling with continued Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure, Zelenskyy has urged American lawmakers to advocate for the reinstatement of sanctions. The uncertainty surrounding the next steps is compounded by the fact that both the House and Senate are currently on recess until after the elections. Trump has stated that he is waiving the sanctions indefinitely, citing national security concerns.
Skepticism abounds regarding Trump’s commitment to the law. It took nearly a year for Graham to convince Trump to agree to the sanctions package, designed to impose significant tariffs on nations importing large amounts of Russian oil and energy. This legislation was seen as a crucial measure to stem the flow of funds that have fueled Putin’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
Despite Zelenskyy’s presence in the Senate gallery as the sanctions package advanced, doubts lingered among Congress members about Trump’s adherence to the law once it was enacted. Just last week, a bipartisan group of senators had urged the Trump administration to expedite its crackdown on Russia, particularly concerning the “shadow fleet” of tankers transporting oil to circumvent U.S. sanctions.
Instead of reinforcing sanctions, Trump announced a diesel deal with Putin, highlighting Russia’s agreement to supply significant amounts of fuel to the U.S. This comes at a time when gas prices are rising sharply and affordability remains a top concern for voters. In response, outraged lawmakers have promised to thwart the Trump-Putin deal.
Representative Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), a leading critic of the Graham bill, introduced legislation aimed at blocking Trump’s diesel deal with Russia. He stated that “at a time when the United States should be increasing pressure on the Kremlin, Donald Trump is cozying up to Putin and striking self-enriching deals instead of standing with Ukraine,” labeling the agreement as “corrupt” and contrary to American values.
This situation continues to unfold as Congress grapples with how best to respond to Trump’s controversial decisions, leaving the future of U.S.-Russia relations and support for Ukraine hanging in the balance.
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Associated Press writers Kevin Freking and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
