Trump waives Russia tariff increases set out in Graham Act order

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order setting out steep tariffs linked to Russia, while waiving their application. The order, dated 16 October, specifies a 500% tariff increase on goods from Russia and 100% increases on goods from certain countries that buy Russian oil or gas or facilitate oil-sanctions evasion. Those rates are not being applied under the order while its waiver remains in force. [1]

The order implements parts of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, which became law on 18 September. That law provides for tariffs and a range of sanctions, but also allows the president to waive them after sending Congress a written national-interest certification and an explanatory report. Trump says he has submitted both. [1] [2]

The order also waives the application of numerous sanctions provisions and restrictions under the act. It says the waivers will remain in place until the president or the secretary of state decides further action is appropriate. Existing sanctions imposed under specified Russia-related executive orders are expressly unaffected. [1]