President Donald Trump signed an executive order on October 17, 2026 that waives newly-passed sanctions on Russian oil and diesel, saying it serves the United States’ “national interest.” The move comes amid a heated row with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and has immediate relevance for crypto readers because energy costs and geopolitical risk often shape demand for Bitcoin and other digital assets.
What happened
According to Al Jazeera, the waiver allows Russian diesel sales to continue until April 2027 and is part of a broader effort to lower energy prices that have risen during the US-Israel war on Iran. The outlet notes that analysts expect Russia to benefit most from the U.S. sanctions waiver. BBC News World reported that the executive order suspends numerous sanctions that were set to take effect two days later, including up to 100 % tariffs on imports from the top five purchasers of Russian oil and gas. The BBC article adds that the move has deepened a diplomatic row with Kyiv, with President Zelenskyy calling the decision “unfortunate” and accusing the United States of “completely disregarding” the sanctions. AP News said the same executive order puts new Russia sanctions that had just been signed into law on hold, again citing “national interest” as the rationale.
Why it matters for crypto
- Energy price pressure. Lower diesel and oil costs can reduce inflationary pressures, which may lessen the appeal of Bitcoin as an inflation hedge.
- Risk-off sentiment. Easing sanctions can be seen as a reduction in geopolitical risk, prompting investors to move out of “safe-haven” assets like gold and Bitcoin.
- Stablecoin and cross-border flows. Sanctions relief may ease the movement of fiat into crypto platforms, especially for users in regions previously constrained by sanctions.
- Dollar strength. If the waiver supports U.S. economic growth, it could bolster the dollar, which historically correlates with lower crypto prices.
How markets reacted
At the time of writing (October 17, 2026), Bitcoin was trading at $81,392, down 0.58 % over the past 24 hours, while Ethereum fell 1.53 % to $2,421. Solana also slipped 1.46 % to $103.82. By contrast, crude oil (WTI) rose 1.07 % to $99.02, and gold edged up 0.26 % to $4,181. The S&P 500 index dropped 1.09 % to $7,659. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index stood at 55, indicating a “greed” sentiment.
| Asset | Price | Change | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin (BTC) | $81,392 | -0.58% | 24 hours |
| Ethereum (ETH) | $2,421 | -1.53% | 24 hours |
| Solana (SOL) | $103.82 | -1.46% | 24 hours |
| Crude oil (WTI) | $99.02 | +1.07% | last session |
| Gold | $4,181 | +0.26% | last session |
| S&P 500 index | $7,659 | -1.09% | last session |
Data at the time of writing (October 17, 2026). Sources: CoinGecko, Yahoo Finance, Alternative.me Crypto Fear and Greed Index: 55 (Greed).
The price moves show crypto assets weakening while oil prices rose, a pattern that can occur when investors shift toward energy-related equities and away from riskier digital assets. However, the data do not prove causation; other factors such as the ongoing US-Israel conflict and broader market volatility also influence prices.
What to watch next
- Further statements from the White House or Treasury on the duration of the sanctions waiver.
- Reactions from European governments and whether they adjust their own import policies.
- Any new executive orders or congressional actions that could reinstate the waived sanctions.
- Developments in the US-Israel war on Iran, which could affect energy markets again.
- Updates from Ukrainian officials regarding military aid and diplomatic talks.
What this means for crypto investors
Investors should expect heightened volatility as news about sanctions and energy prices circulates. It is wise to avoid making impulsive trades based solely on headlines and to keep position sizes aligned with personal risk tolerance. Be alert for scams that may use the sanctions story to lure victims with promises of guaranteed returns or “safe-haven” crypto investments.
Bottom line
The Trump administration’s decision to waive several Russia oil sanctions reflects a shift in U.S. policy that could lower energy costs but also reduce the geopolitical risk premium that sometimes fuels crypto demand. While Bitcoin and other digital assets slipped on the day of the announcement, the broader market picture remains mixed, with oil and equities reacting differently.
For a deeper look at how geopolitics shapes crypto, see our analysis of Red Sea tensions and the beginner guide to Bitcoin. The full stories are available at Al Jazeera and BBC News World.
Frequently asked questions
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Sources
This article is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Crypto assets are volatile, so always do your own research. Read our editorial policy.
