US Senate defies Donald Trump move to ease Russia sanctions
Eleven Republican join Democrats in disapproving president’s plan
Washington — The US Senate voted on Tuesday to move ahead with a resolution disapproving a Trump administration plan to ease sanctions on Russian companies tied to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, clearing the way for debate and a vote on the plan. The vote marked a rare break from President Donald Trump. Eleven of Trump’s fellow Republicans joined Democrats to vote 57-42 in favour of a motion to proceed to the resolution of disapproval. Republicans hold a slim 53-47 seat majority in the 100-member Senate. The Senate vote came shortly after treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin came to the Capitol to urge Republicans to oppose the Democratic-backed resolution of disapproval. But several said they wanted more time to consider the move to ease sanctions on Russia before making a final decision on its fate. The treasury department said in December it would lift sanctions imposed in April on the core businesses of Deripaska, including aluminum company Rusal, its parent En+, and power firm E...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.