US President Donald Trump has temporarily waived sanctions and tariffs that were set to penalise countries buying Russian oil and gas. The decision comes just before the measures were due to take effect under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026.
What Trump Decided
In an executive order issued on Friday, Trump waived the application of sanctions, restrictions and duties under the Graham Act. The order had provided for a 500% duty on Russian goods and a possible 100% tariff on goods from the five largest importers of Russian crude oil and natural gas.
The waiver also covers measures against countries or entities accused of helping Russia evade energy-related sanctions. However, the tariffs have been formally established in the order, which means the US President could activate them later if he chooses.
Why the Waiver Was Issued
Trump said he had submitted a certification to Congress stating that the waiver was in the “national interests of the United States.” The Graham Act allows the President to waive its sanctions and duties after making such a certification.
The administration has not given a detailed public explanation for the move. Reports suggest the decision may help the US secure Russian energy supplies and ease fuel prices, after Washington recently moved to increase Russian diesel imports.
How Long Will It Last?
The waivers will remain in force until Trump or the US Secretary of State decides that “further action is appropriate.” The administration has also directed officials to monitor countries importing Russian energy and those suspected of helping Moscow evade sanctions.
This gives the White House flexibility: the sanctions and tariffs remain legally available, but their enforcement has been paused for now.
Impact on India and China
The decision is significant for major buyers of Russian crude, including India and China. The suspended law could have imposed tariffs of up to 100% on goods imported into the US from the five largest importers of Russian oil and gas.
For India, which continues to source discounted Russian crude, the waiver removes an immediate risk of punitive US trade action. It may also reduce uncertainty for Indian refiners and exporters dealing with the United States.
What It Means for Russia
The move offers an economic reprieve to Moscow, as the sanctions package was designed to pressure Russia by restricting revenue from oil and gas exports. Russian energy sales remain a major source of funding for the Kremlin.
However, the waiver is temporary and reversible. The US can restore the tariffs and sanctions if it determines that further action is needed.
Key Takeaway
Trump’s order does not cancel the sanctions law; it pauses its enforcement. For now, countries buying Russian oil and gas, including India and China, face no immediate US tariffs, but the threat could return if Washington changes course.
