Rubio: Trump Pauses Russia Sanctions 60 Days to Analyze Economic Impact

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Saturday, October 17, that President Donald Trump will use a period of up to 60 days to evaluate the economic fallout of statutory sanctions against Russia and tariffs on nations purchasing Russian energy.

President Trump signed an executive order on Friday, October 16, waiving key sanctions and tariffs under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which were due to take effect next week. Rubio characterized the waiver as an analytical pause rather than a permanent abandonment of statutory penalties, emphasizing that the economic restrictions would affect numerous foreign partners beyond Russia itself, citing India as an example.

He also noted that simultaneous geopolitical crises, including the US war involving Iran and Houthi movement strikes against Saudi Arabian infrastructure, have intensified pressure on international energy markets. President Trump said on Saturday his decision would benefit the US, calling it a very good decision and good for the country. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers defended the waiver, stating it provides critical leverage in ongoing diplomatic efforts to negotiate a comprehensive peace settlement between Moscow and Kyiv.

US lawmakers from both parties criticized the decision; Republican Senator Thom Tillis called it "Beyond irresponsible," and Senator Ted Cruz called it a mistake. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the suspension was a mistake that encourages Vladimir Putin. Congress is unlikely to mount a swift response as both chambers remain in recess until after the November 3 midterm elections.