According to the new Graham law, sanctions against Russia are set to take effect on October 18, 2026. However, according to Politico, the White House is likely to delay making a decision on their implementation.
Requirements of the Graham Law
The law requires that by Sunday, October 18, President Donald Trump must determine which individuals and organizations meet the criteria for imposing sanctions. After this, the White House is obligated to take appropriate measures. However, the law also provides for the possibility of waiving the sanctions if the president sends a notification to Congress stating that such a move "is in the national interest of the United States."
Possibility of Delaying Sanctions
Analysts suggest that given Trump's lenient attitude towards the Kremlin, it is most likely that the scenario of waiving the sanctions will be realized. This may indicate a continuation of the policy of easing pressure on Russia by the Trump administration.
Lack of Notifications from Government Agencies
Typically, prior to the imposition of large-scale sanctions, the State Department and other agencies notify about this in advance. However, currently, such information is absent, raising concerns among experts regarding the potential implications for U.S. foreign policy.