Republicans and Democrats criticize Trump's waiver of new Russia sanctions

Donald Trump's decision to waive new sanctions on Russia drew criticism from both parties in Congress. Lawmakers accused the president of abandoning pressure on Moscow despite support for the legislation.

Republican Sen. Thom Tillis noted that the Senate had backed the law by 86 votes to 11. Writing on X, he called the administration's actions irresponsible and accused it of yielding to Russia's leadership. Fellow Republican John Cornyn said Lindsey Graham, who had championed the legislation, would have been appalled.

Democratic Rep. Don Beyer said the waiver ran counter to Congress's expressed will. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who helped develop the legislation, accused Trump of seeking to please Vladimir Putin and urged Republicans to join in condemning the decision.

Trump signed the order on the evening of October 16. The restrictions had been due to take effect on October 18. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers told Axios that imposing them now would undermine U.S. efforts to secure a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine.

Congress is not expected to respond immediately, according to The Washington Post. Both chambers are on recess until the November 3 midterm elections.