Trump waives Russia sanctions ahead of enforcement amid Ukraine tensions

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order waiving a new set of sanctions related to Russian fossil fuel sales just days before they were scheduled to take effect, according to CNN and other news outlets.

The sanctions, part of legislation signed into law last month, would have imposed tariffs up to 100% on goods from the top five importers of Russian crude oil or gas, aiming to cut funding to Russia's war efforts. Trump stated the waiver serves the national interest but did not specify reasons in the order, which said the waiver will remain effective.

This move comes amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine, with President Zelensky condemning the waiver as undermining efforts to pressure Russia. The White House has reportedly urged Ukraine to halt strikes on Russian oil facilities to ease oil prices ahead of U.S. midterm elections, though Ukraine has since resumed attacks.

The decision has drawn criticism from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Washington, reflecting concerns over the impact on U.S. foreign policy and support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

What we're watching: How this waiver will affect U.S. relations with Ukraine and the broader geopolitical dynamics as the conflict continues.