Trump waives latest Russia sanctions amid growing Ukraine-US tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump recently waived sanctions under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, increasing tensions between Ukraine and the United States. The law grants Trump extensive authority to impose or waive sanctions and tariffs. The decision to waive wide-ranging sanctions from the Graham Act drew swift backlash from Democrats like Representative Don Beyer.

Beyer urged Congress to address the flawed law and condemned Trump for defying congressional intent. Trump's actions have raised concerns that he may abuse the law's powers, potentially targeting allies through new trade authorities. Meanwhile, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Trump's deal to purchase Russian diesel could lead to additional sanctions relief for Moscow.

Beyer expressed strong opposition, stating that Ukraine cannot accept such agreements as it could pave the way for further sanctions waivers and potentially more concessions.