⚖️Trump Backs Russia SanctionsBut Keeps a Get-Out-of-Jail-Free Waiver

Foreign Policy
National Security

President Trump asked Congress this week to approve fresh sanctions on Russia, then slipped in a waiver that lets him dump those penalties whenever he wants. By insisting on that clause, Trump cut lawmakers out of the loop and grabbed extra foreign-policy power for himself.

Review Topic

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

10 questions
5:00
10 available

Key Takeaways

  • Trump demanded new Russia sanctions, then grabbed a waiver that lets him lift those penalties any time—shifting power away from Congress.
  • Senators Menendez and Risch built a 30-day congressional review into their bill to block any waiver—but Trump’s version tosses that aside.
  • You can follow bill S.1234 on Congress.gov to track amendments, committee votes, and the final Senate tally.
  • When you call your senators, say you oppose any automatic waiver for Russia sanctions to show you want Congress in charge.
  • This showdown sets a template for future fights over executive leeway in foreign policy—staying engaged now shapes how much power presidents get later.

Influential Figures

No influential figures found.

Some topics may not have prominent individuals directly associated.

Why This Matters

Gas Prices Could Jump $0.25/gallon:

If Trump lifts sanctions on Russian energy firms, global oil markets could wobble and drive U.S. pump prices higher within weeks.

Congressian Oversight Vanishes:

Senators wrote a 30-day review period into the bill, but the waiver wipes out that window—letting the President act solo.

Your Call Will Count:

The Senate plans to vote July 17. Calling your two senators by July 15 could tip the balance on whether Congress keeps this check.

What Others Are Asking

No Questions Yet

Be the first to ask

Detailed Content