Trump waives Graham Act sanctions on Russia, drawing backlash from some lawmakers

What happened: President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday waiving new sanctions and tariffs on Russia required under the Graham Act, two days before they were set to take effect. Key numbers: The new sanctions and penalties were set to take effect on Oct. 18, the deadline set by the law. Why it matters: The order effectively neutralizes the law by lifting provisions that barred the president from removing sanctions against Russia, giving the administration wider latitude to decide which sanctions to keep without complying with the law. Coverage: 5 outlets in 24h

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday waiving new sanctions and tariffs on Russia required under the Graham Act, two days before they were set to take effect.

The order effectively neutralizes the law by lifting provisions that barred the president from removing sanctions against Russia, giving the administration wider latitude to decide which sanctions to keep without complying with the law.