Cheap fuel before the elections: Trump eases up on Russia, attacks continue

US President Donald Trump has halted new sanctions and tariffs on Russia, following the authorization of diesel deals with Russia, about two weeks before the midterm elections. According to the New York Times, the move is intended to lower fuel prices for American consumers. Moscow welcomed the decision; Zelensky condemned it. Meanwhile, Ukraine attacked near St. Petersburg and Russia struck infrastructure in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump has halted the imposition of new sanctions and tariffs on Russia, following his decision to authorize diesel deals with Russia. Both moves come about two weeks before the US midterm elections, against a backdrop of high energy prices. According to the New York Times, Trump is turning to Moscow in an attempt to lower fuel prices for American consumers. On Friday, Trump signed an order granting an exemption from the application of sections of the "Graham Act," including an additional 500% tariff on goods from Russia. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the president is seeking up to 60 days to review the impact of the measures. Moscow welcomed the decision; Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned it. Meanwhile, a widespread Ukrainian drone attack was reported in the St. Petersburg area, hitting an oil terminal and a data center. Russia attacked Ukraine's largest steel plant and other infrastructure. Experts question the ability of the diesel deal to significantly lower prices in the time remaining before the elections.