President Trump waived new sanctions on Russia, citing U.S. national interests to delay implementing the Graham Act. This decision eases American pressure on Russia, diverging from bipartisan calls to intensify it. The waiver follows a recent deal allowing Russia to sell diesel internationally, which also drew criticism. This action places Republican candidates in a difficult position during the midterm elections, requiring them to defend Trump's warmer stance towards Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed disappointment, stating the Act could still be effective. The White House announced the executive order detailing the waiver’s implementation. The Graham Act, signed in September, imposed broad sanctions on Russia and its trading partners. Trump certified to Congress that the waiver is in the national interest of the United States. Both Republicans and Democrats condemned the waiver as a betrayal of Ukraine and a concession to Russia. Senators expressed dismay that the President was not enforcing a law passed with overwhelming congressional support. This waiver concludes a week where Trump significantly reduced pressure on Russia across various issues. Avoiding secondary sanctions also spares major Russian oil buyers like China and India from new U.S. pressure. Ultimately, Trump appears to be intensifying his stance of reducing pressure on Russia despite bipartisan opposition.