- President Donald Trump has signed an executive order pausing a new sanctions package targeting the Russian economy, telling Congress the delay is in the national interest.
- The decision comes just two days before the implementation deadline for the legislation, which was designed to curb financial resources fuelling the war against Ukraine.
- The pause follows President Trump's recent announcement that the US had agreed to purchase diesel from Russia to help lower global energy prices.
- An AP-NORC poll indicates President Trump's approval ratings have dropped to near-historic lows, with voters blaming him for higher prices and his handling of the Iran war.
- The political shift puts additional pressure on Republicans as they seek to retain control of both chambers of Congress in the 3 November midterm elections.
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