Washington, DC — President Donald Trump defended his decision to waive newly approved sanctions and tariffs on Russia, arguing the move is intended to keep Moscow engaged in negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
Trump said imposing the measures immediately could drive Russia away from talks. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the administration wants up to 60 days to evaluate the economic effects of the sanctions before deciding whether to restore them.
The decision has drawn unusually sharp criticism from Republicans. Sen. Thom Tillis called the waiver “beyond irresponsible,” while Rep. Michael McCaul urged Trump to reverse course and return to stronger economic pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The sanctions were included in legislation Trump signed in September and were designed to punish Russia and countries that continue purchasing Russian energy.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also criticized the waiver, warning that easing economic pressure provides Moscow additional resources while Russian forces continue attacking Ukraine. He said the decision “definitely helps only the Russians.”
Trump has separately struck a deal allowing increased Russian diesel exports, another move criticized by Republican lawmakers who argue that energy revenue could help finance Russia’s war effort.
The administration maintains that temporary economic concessions could provide incentives for Moscow to remain at the negotiating table.
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