President Trump is reviewing options to lift additional sanctions tied to Russian financial interests as part of broader efforts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. The move follows recent administration actions that paused new penalties and authorized limited energy imports from Russia.

Last week, Trump issued an executive order waiving key provisions of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which Congress passed in September. Officials cited the need to assess impacts on global energy markets and U.S. economic interests ahead of midterm elections. The waivers suspend tariffs of up to 500 percent on Russian goods and 100 percent duties on top importers of Russian oil and gas.

A separate agreement announced earlier this month allows Russia to export millions of tons of diesel fuel to global markets, with the goal of easing price pressures felt by American consumers, farmers, and truckers. Administration sources described the steps as incentives to encourage Russian concessions at the negotiating table.

Discussions have also touched on business arrangements involving sanctioned Russian energy assets, including potential sales of Lukoil holdings to international investors. Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have held talks with Russian counterparts on these matters alongside Ukraine peace efforts. Proponents argue such deals could unlock economic opportunities while demonstrating U.S. seriousness about resetting relations.

Critics in Congress, including some Republicans, have urged reversal of the waivers, warning they reduce leverage over Moscow. Ukrainian officials have expressed concern that relief without reciprocal steps by Russia strengthens the Kremlin's position.

Trump has repeatedly stated that business engagement with Russia should follow progress toward settling the conflict. The current reviews reflect an ongoing strategy to combine diplomatic pressure with economic openings to achieve results where prior sanctions regimes fell short.