Rubio says Trump to 'analyze' global impact of Russia sanctions during pause

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Saturday that President Donald Trump’s decision to waive sweeping sanctions and tariffs on Russia is a 60-day pause. According to Rubio, the president intends to use this period to analyze the impact that imposing these measures would have on the global economy and the US economy. Rubio noted that the economic restrictions involve several countries beyond Russia.

The waiver comes following an executive order signed Friday that bypassed measures adopted by Congress last month. While Trump stated the decision would benefit the US and the world, the move has drawn bipartisan criticism from US lawmakers and raised fears in Ukraine regarding the potential easing of further restrictions on Moscow. Middle East Eye reports the executive order followed a deal with Vladimir Putin to allow Russian diesel exports in exchange for easing sanctions.

Regarding energy imports, Rubio described India as an "important ally" that has voluntarily diversified its energy portfolio, though he noted it remains difficult for New Delhi to pivot away from Russian energy overnight. Hindustan Times reports that the president's executive order waived certain tariffs that could have targeted India and four other nations for purchasing Russian oil and gas.

Rubio also noted that various global conflicts, including the US war on Iran and Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, are impacting global energy prices and economies.

Brief written by urgent.news from France 24, CBS News, Hindustan Times, RTE News, Middle East Eye — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.