Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has described the Trump administration's decision to waive sanctions on Russia as a "mistake," despite acknowledging the administration's focus on lowering diesel prices. Cruz stated on Fox News that while the president's concern for gasoline and diesel prices is understandable, there are alternative solutions.
The decision to waive sanctions, which had previously garnered significant bipartisan support and were seen as a reflection of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham's legacy, has drawn criticism from multiple members of Congress. Cruz suggested that the U.S. should instead increase diesel imports from Canada, a friendly nation, to avoid providing financial support to Russia.
Cruz argued that importing diesel from Canada would not result in "giving an enemy of America billions of dollars that they use against us." He also called for an end to the "trade war" with Canada, referencing past Trump-era insults and tariffs.
The executive order to waive sanctions comes at a time when the Republican Party is facing challenging poll numbers ahead of the midterm elections, with economic consequences of international conflicts being a significant factor. Critics of former President Trump have previously voiced concerns about potential U.S. alignment with Russian President Vladimir Putin, particularly in light of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.