Trump puts on hold new Russia sanctions he signed into law

Donald Trump has paused a sweeping package of sanctions against Russia that he signed into law last month, telling Congress the suspension is in the national interest. His executive order, signed on Friday, came two days before the measures were due to take effect. Drafted by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, the law targeted Russian officials, banks and an oil tanker fleet, and directed tariffs of up to 100 percent on major importers of Russian energy. The pause follows Trump’s announcement a week earlier of a deal to buy diesel from Russia, which lawmakers from both parties criticised, including Democrat Don Beyer.