U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says President Donald Trump’s executive decision to waive key Russia-related sanctions and tariffs will last about 60 days, during which the administration will “analyse” the measures’ impact on the global economy, including the United States. Multiple outlets report Rubio’s remarks as the waiver draws criticism and concerns abroad.
The sanctions framework involved authority tied to a law passed by Congress in September, which includes restrictions targeting Russian officials, oligarchs, and financial institutions, as well as the ability to impose sanctions on major buyers of Russian oil and gas. Outlets also link the executive order to an earlier agreement between Trump and Vladimir Putin allowing Russian diesel exports in exchange for easing sanctions. Several reports note Rubio argues that overlapping conflicts—such as those affecting energy prices—are influencing oil and diesel costs and therefore broader economic conditions. Ukraine-based fears are reported that Washington may relax restrictions further, while U.S. lawmakers across party lines criticize the move ahead of major upcoming political deadlines.
