Republican senators slam Trump’s waiver of September Russia sanctions

Congress approved a sanctions package in September targeting Russia’s energy industry to support Ukraine, but President Trump issued an executive order that waives those measures. Republican senators including Thom Tillis, Ted Cruz and Michael McCaul publicly rebuked the waiver, arguing it aids Vladimir Putin and undermines efforts to reduce energy costs. The criticism comes as the White House negotiates a diesel import arrangement with Moscow and as the party faces low poll numbers ahead of the November midterm elections.

The Graham Act, originally championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, was the legislative vehicle for the sanctions. Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer joined the rebuke, labeling the action a “gift” to Russia. The dispute highlights intra-party tension over foreign policy and election strategy.