Trump defends Russia sanctions delay as Republicans push back
President Trump is defending a delay in new sanctions on Russia, saying he wants to keep Moscow engaged in talks to end the Ukraine war. Republican senators are pressing the administration to enforce penalties under a law named for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham. The live blog also covers midterm campaigning, including Trump's trip to Kansas and Vice President Vance's travel to North Carolina.
President Trump says he is holding off on fresh Russia sanctions to avoid pushing Moscow away from negotiations aimed at ending the Ukraine war. The decision has drawn Republican criticism, with Sens. Darline Graham and Thom Tillis urging the administration to strengthen penalties under legislation honoring the late Sen. Lindsey Graham.
With two weeks until the midterms, Republicans are trying to keep control of Congress amid weak polling. Trump is set to campaign in Park City, Kan., and Vice President Vance will travel to Hendersonville, N.C.; Trump also plans a Rose Garden executive order with first lady Melania Trump.
The sanctions delay could shape diplomatic talks and economic pressure tied to the Ukraine war, affecting Ukrainian civilians and international relations. Republican pushback may intensify scrutiny before the midterms, potentially influencing voters focused on foreign policy and congressional control. Campaign stops by Trump and Vance may mobilize supporters in Kansas and North Carolina, while debates over candidate conduct and business endorsements could sway close Senate races.