US President Donald Trump has waived major sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia just days before they were due to take effect, drawing criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and lawmakers from both major US political parties.

The decision could weaken a new effort to pressure Moscow over its war in Ukraine, while raising further questions about Washington’s commitment to supporting Kyiv.

Trump signed an executive order on 16 October, invoking a provision in legislation passed by Congress and signed into law in September that allows sanctions to be waived on national-interest grounds. The order suspends several new measures but does not remove all existing US sanctions against Russia.

Why the sanctions matter

The legislation was designed to increase economic pressure on Russia, including through sanctions on individuals and entities and potential tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas.

China and India are among the major buyers of Russian energy whose trade could be affected by the measures.

The sanctions were intended to limit Moscow’s economic resources as its war against Ukraine continues.

Zelensky criticised the decision, saying the measures could have helped increase pressure on Russia to end the conflict.

Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev welcomed the waiver, describing it as a significant moment for potential economic cooperation, according to reports.

Trump faces criticism at home

The decision has also drawn opposition in Washington.

Democratic lawmakers accused Trump of undermining the purpose of the legislation and weakening support for Ukraine. Some Republicans have also criticised the move, arguing that easing pressure on Moscow could benefit Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump’s administration has defended the waiver on national-interest grounds, while seeking to address domestic energy-price pressures.

The decision follows a controversial arrangement involving Russian diesel exports, which has further strained relations between Washington and Kyiv.

What happens next?

The waiver comes amid continued Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure and growing disagreement over US support for Ukraine.

The broader implications will depend on how Washington implements its remaining sanctions, whether further restrictions are waived and whether diplomatic efforts produce progress towards ending the war.

For now, the decision marks another point of tension between the US administration and Ukraine as Kyiv seeks continued international support against Russia’s invasion.