Trump exempts Russia from sanctions
The gist
Trump signed an executive order waiving some Russia sanctions under the Graham Act, citing national interest.
A dozen senators say the diesel deal helps Moscow more than US fuel prices.
How it unfolded
- Oct 9, 2026The Trump administration temporarily lifted US sanctions on Russian fuel to allow diesel exports to global markets.
- Oct 10, 2026Trump announced a deal allowing Russia to sell the equivalent of 15 tankers of diesel on the American market, saying Russia would immediately supply more than 300,000 metric tons (2.25 million barrels) to US and global markets.
- Oct 13, 2026A dozen senators, including Republicans Mitch McConnell, Thom Tillis, Susan Collins, Alan Armstrong, Lisa Murkowski and John Cornyn, urged Trump to rescind the diesel deal and implement the sanctions authorized by the law.