US President Donald Trump has defended his decision to exempt Russia from a new sanctions measure, calling it a “very good decision” amid criticism from lawmakers across party lines.
Speaking to reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort on Saturday, Trump said the decision would benefit the United States and the world, adding that many people did not yet understand its implications.
On Friday, Trump signed an executive order granting Russia an exemption from the sanctions measure passed by Congress last month. The order also waived 100 per cent tariffs on the top five purchasers of Russian oil and gas, including China and India.
The exemptions will remain in effect until Trump or the secretary of state, in consultation with relevant officials, determines that further action is necessary.
The decision drew criticism from Republicans and Democrats, despite the sanctions legislation receiving overwhelming support in the Senate.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis called the move “beyond irresponsible” and questioned the administration’s decision to waive a law passed by Congress. He accused the administration of yielding to Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose country launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Republican Senator John Cornyn also criticised the decision, saying the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who had championed the legislation, “would be appalled”.
Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren accused Trump of defying Congress and enabling Russia to continue its war against Ukraine. She urged lawmakers to act to reverse the decision.
Republican Senator Darline Graham also questioned the waiver, saying she would prefer to put pressure on Russia to end the war while bringing down energy prices. She said she did not trust Putin or Russia.