Trump’s suspension of new Russia sanctions draws criticism over Putin ties

Donald Trump suspended by executive order on October 16, 2026, the implementation of a sweeping Russia sanctions package he signed the previous month, just two days before it was due to take effect. Passed by large majorities in both chambers of Congress, the law targeted Russian officials, banks and energy-export vessels, and authorised tariffs of up to 100% on certain importers. Democratic Representative Don Beyer criticised the move and urged Congress to fix the law, saying it should prevent Trump from capitulating to Vladimir Putin and ensure support for Ukraine. The suspension followed Trump’s announcement of a US deal to buy Russian diesel and comes amid tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.