Congress members reject Trump's decision to exempt Russia from sanctions

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday to temporarily suspend a package of sanctions against Russia that had been established under the Graham Act. The administration justified the decision by citing national interest, positioning the move in contrast to the legislative intent of the U.S. Congress.

The decision has faced significant backlash from lawmakers, including members of the president's own Republican party. The conflict centers on the administration's use of executive authority to bypass the previously signed sanctions legislation, sparking criticism regarding the implementation of foreign policy toward Russia.