Trump's decision to waive Russian sanctions outrages Congress, but no quick counter seen

President Donald Trump's abrupt decision to waive sanctions on Russia drew strong condemnation from members of Congress on Saturday. Lawmakers from both parties expressed outrage, citing the legislation's bipartisan support for Ukraine in its war with Russia. Several Republican senators, including Thom Tillis and John Cornyn, blasted Trump's executive order, accusing him of capitulating to Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.

The bill, known as the Lindsey Graham Russian Sanctions Act, had been passed overwhelmingly by the Senate, with a margin of 86-11. The waiver comes as Ukraine braces for a harsh winter, with Russia's ongoing attacks on its energy infrastructure making it difficult to heat homes and keep the lights on. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had expressed hope that the sanctions, which were set to take effect the following day, could be revived.

Trump's move to waive the sanctions indefinitely is unlikely to face opposition from Congress, as lawmakers will not return to Washington until after Election Day. Trump cited national security concerns as the reason for waiving the sanctions, and it is unlikely that Congress would be able to take action to reverse course until lawmakers return to Washington.