Republican backlash over Russia policy poses challenge for Trump in Congress
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a rally in South Carolina on Wednesday. | REUTERS
Oct 22, 2026
WASHINGTON – U.S. President Donald Trump’s moves in recent weeks to ease economic pressure on Russia while stepping up criticism of Ukraine have triggered bipartisan opposition in Congress, potentially complicating his agenda after next month’s midterm elections.
Seeking to draw Russian President Vladimir Putin into negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, Trump has lifted sanctions on Russian diesel exports and waived newly enacted sanctions against Russian officials, oligarchs, banks and state enterprises.
At the same time, he has increased pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, calling for him to be replaced as the country’s leader. A satellite system used by Ukraine for battlefield communications and drone operations was throttled following an order from inside the White House, Reuters reported last week.
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