Updated

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on October 17, 2026 that President Donald Trump's decision to waive sanctions and tariffs on Russia would last 60 days, framing it as a period for Trump to "analyze" the global impact of the measures. The move drew bipartisan criticism in Washington and raised concerns in Ukraine that the United States could further ease restrictions on Moscow. The pause comes amid ongoing US-brokered peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, and critics worry it signals weakening pressure on Moscow at a sensitive point in negotiations. Ukrainian officials have expressed unease that the suspension could embolden Russia or undercut leverage in the broader diplomatic process.