President Donald Trump on Monday waived enforcement of several sanctions provisions contained in a new US law aimed at punishing Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, saying portions of the legislation are contrary to American national interests.
The statute, which takes effect this week, was passed with the stated goal of increasing pressure on Moscow over its military actions in Ukraine. By invoking waiver authority, the White House has temporarily set aside certain measures, a move the president defended as necessary to protect broader US priorities and flexibility in foreign policy.
Administration officials say the use of waivers is a routine element of US sanctions statutes, allowing the executive branch to adjust implementation in light of intelligence, diplomatic considerations or economic impacts. Trump framed his decision as an effort to preserve options for negotiation and to prevent unintended consequences that could harm US economic and security interests.
Critics, including some lawmakers and foreign policy experts, warned the waiver could undermine the law’s deterrent effect and send mixed signals to allies seeking a united approach toward Moscow. Supporters argued the executive branch needs discretion to respond to evolving circumstances and to coordinate sanctions with other diplomatic and economic tools.
The move sets the tone for how the administration will enforce the new measures in the coming weeks and months. How long the waivers remain in place, and whether Congress will press for tighter implementation or oversight, could shape Washington’s stance toward Russia and the broader international response to the war in Ukraine.