Trump paused Russia sanctions to 'analyse' impact on global economy: Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Saturday that President Donald Trump's decision to pause Russia sanctions for a 60-day period to "analyse" their impact on the global economy was intended to understand the effects of these economic measures on various nations. Rubio pointed out that conflicts around the world, such as the US war on Iran and attacks on Saudi Arabia by Yemen’s Houthis, were contributing to rising global energy prices.

The economic restrictions, imposed on Russia, involved multiple countries and had implications beyond the energy sector, affecting economies worldwide. Trump's decision aimed to benefit the US, though it remained unclear if he had finalized his stance. Following the waiver, US lawmakers from both sides of the political spectrum criticized Trump's move, with Republican Senator Thom Tillis calling it "irresponsible" and Senator Ted Cruz deeming it a "mistake."

Trump's executive order followed a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which allowed exports of Russian diesel in exchange for sanctions relief. This development would impact the US economy by introducing diesel price hikes stemming from the Iran war, and cost of living concerns loomed over voters ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.