Washington: (RightNow) US President Donald Trump has lifted new sanctions on Russian oil and gas sales before they took effect. US lawmakers criticize the decision, stating it reduces pressure on Russia and affects support for Ukraine.

President Trump announced the exemption through an executive order on Friday. The sanctions were to be imposed under a law passed last month. Trump informed Congress that the decision is in the national interest of the US, but reasons were not clarified.

The proposed law could have imposed up to 100% additional tariffs on importers of Russian oil or gas. Revenue from Russian oil sales is considered crucial for the war against Ukraine.

It is noteworthy that recently, the US pressured Ukraine to halt attacks on Russian oil facilities. Ukraine temporarily complied but later resumed attacks.

It should be remembered that Trump’s decision was welcomed in Russia, with officials calling it significant for economic cooperation between the two countries. However, it faces strong criticism in the US and is seen as a leadership failure.