Trump Using 60-Day Pause to Review Russia Sanctions, Rubio Says

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Saturday that President Donald Trump will utilize a 60-day period to assess the economic impact of Russia sanctions and tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy. Rubio clarified that the executive waiver of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act is an analytical hiatus, rather than a permanent removal of penalties.

The president aims to understand the implications of the sanctions and tariffs on the global and US economy. India, a key US strategic ally, still heavily relies on Russian oil imports, despite diversifying its energy sources. He also defended the administration's arrangement with Russia to export refined diesel fuel globally, arguing it would stabilize fuel prices after disruptions from conflicts in the Middle East.

The White House defended the move, claiming it would not hinder diplomatic efforts for a lasting Ukraine-Russia peace deal. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US lawmakers criticized the decision, seeing it as a strategic mistake and unwarranted concessions to Russia.