Rubio Says Trump Needs 60 Days to Weigh Russia Sanctions
Published On 19 Oct, 2026
9 News HD: US President Donald Trump may take up to 60 days to decide what to do about sanctions and tariffs linked to Russia, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said.
Rubio said the extra time would help the US government study how these measures could affect the American and global economies. Trump has not yet announced a final decision on the issue.
On Friday, Trump signed an order that paused key sanctions and tariffs linked to Russian exports. The measures were part of a plan to put pressure on Russia over its war in Ukraine.
The planned steps included tariffs on Russian goods and penalties for countries that buy Russian oil and gas. These measures were expected to take effect the following week, but Trump's order delayed their use.
Rubio said the 60-day review would give officials time to understand the possible economic effects. Countries that depend on Russian energy supplies could also be affected by the planned measures.
The decision comes as the US faces pressure over rising energy prices. The war involving Iran has also disrupted global energy supplies, adding to concerns about fuel costs.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticised Trump's move, warning that easing pressure on Russia could encourage further action in Ukraine and prolong the war.
For now, the US government has not confirmed what steps it will take after the review. Trump's final decision could affect relations with Russia, countries buying Russian energy, and efforts to put pressure on Moscow over the war in Ukraine.
