Trump suspends Graham Act sanctions, sparing Türkiye from possible U.S. tariffs

Trump suspended the Russia sanctions and tariffs required by the Graham Act, a move that also spares Russian oil buyers Türkiye, China and India from potential U.S. duties of up to 100%.

President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia directly concerns Türkiye, one of the major buyers of Russian energy. The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act called for 100% tariffs on goods from the five largest buyers of Russian crude oil.

In an executive order signed late Friday, Oct. 16, Trump also suspended sanctions on Russia’s top leadership and state companies and the 500% duty on U.S. imports of Russian energy, certifying to Congress in writing that the move serves the national interest.

Relief for China, India and Türkiye

Putin and Trump walk on the red carpet in Alaska (file photo)

Analysts say the waiver also shields Washington from potential trade disputes with China, India and Türkiye, major customers of Russian energy. Trump signed the law himself on Sept. 18, with an Oct. 18 deadline for implementation. The order formally imposes the tariffs but suspends their enforcement indefinitely.

Behind the decision is an Oct. 9 deal with Putin allowing Russian diesel to be sold to the United States. Diesel prices, up nearly 70% since the Iran war began, are putting pressure on the White House ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms.

Moscow pleased, backlash in Washington

Putin’s special envoy Kirill Dmitriev called the decision “a truly historic moment.” Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal accused Trump of “sucking up to Vladimir Putin,” and Republican Rep. Don Bacon said it would prolong the war in Ukraine. Sanctions imposed on Russia under earlier executive orders remain in place.