October 18, 2026 to October 24, 2026

This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news coverings foreign affairs and international relations. Once a week, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Want to track other GR news in related areas? Don't miss this week's updates in Defence and Social Issues. Also consider subscribing to our Foreign Affairs - Ottawa edition covering critical GR news north of the border.

📋 In This Week's Newsletter

• 🇺🇸 Federal Government News
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week

Federal Government News

White House Adjusts Tariffs on Canadian Motor Vehicle Imports

On October 23, 2026, President Trump issued a proclamation further modifying the scope of Canadian products subject to additional ad valorem duties imposed under Section 338 to counteract Canadian discrimination in the U.S. motor vehicle sector. Following recommendations from senior officials, the administration updated the list of affected Canadian products, with certain items such as plywood sheets, paper products, and machinery being removed from the previous list, and others like valves, carpets, and waste products newly included. The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States will be updated to reflect these changes, effective October 30, 2026. The duties, at a 50% ad valorem rate, apply to all covered goods—including those under the USMCA—and agencies such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection are directed to implement the adjustments.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

Executive Order Implements the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act

On October 16, 2026, the President signed Executive Order 14436 to implement the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. This order increases duties on goods from the Russian Federation by 500% ad valorem, with further duties on leading importers and facilitators of Russian oil sanctions evasion. The Trade Representative, in coordination with other federal agencies, is tasked with monitoring countries' activities relating to Russian oil and reporting to the President. The order also provides for waivers of certain sanctions and duties when deemed in the national interest. Delegations of authority to federal agencies are specified, and relevant agencies are directed to carry out the order’s provisions.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Department of State Sanctions International Criminal Court Officials and Entity

On October 23, 2026, the U.S. Department of State published notice of sanctions against Tomoko Akane and Abdoulaye Seye, both identified as International Criminal Court officials based in The Hague, Netherlands, for actions under Executive Order 14203 pertaining to ICC investigations without consent of the concerned country. The International Criminal Court itself was also added to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List. All property and interests in property subject to U.S. jurisdiction are blocked for these persons and the ICC entity. Information on the sanctions is available via OFAC’s website.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Presidential Determination on Domestic Petroleum Production and Refining

On October 22, 2026, President Trump issued a presidential memorandum to the Secretary of War under Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, determining that domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics are essential to U.S. national defense. The President authorized federal actions, including purchasing, financial support, and regulatory waivers, to address shortfalls and expand capacity due to constraints in the industry's ability to meet defense needs. The Secretary of War is directed to implement and publish this determination, which supersedes any inconsistent prior directives.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

Administration Moves to Address Security Risks from Wind Turbine Imports

A presidential proclamation, based on a report from the Secretary of Commerce under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, finds that wind turbine and component imports pose national security risks. The report identified unreliable grid impacts and foreign-sourced components with cybersecurity vulnerabilities that could threaten infrastructure and defense operations. The President directed the Secretary of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative to negotiate with trading partners to address these risks, noting ongoing tariffs on key materials and potential for further action under Section 232.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

What We're Reading This Week

• Ukraine and Russia eye new peace talks — and Melania Trump's mission — but steep obstacles remain: Ukraine and Russia consider new negotiations as diplomatic efforts continue amid ongoing challenges.
• Trump foreign policy hits voters in the pocketbook, imperiling Republicans in midterms: Analysis examines economic effects of Trump-era foreign policy and its potential impact on midterm election prospects.
• COMMENTARY: From Canada to Nigeria, a race for more 'defence sovereignty' is on: Perspectives on growing defense self-reliance initiatives in countries including Canada and Nigeria.
• UN expert urges Indonesia to reconsider involvement in Trump's Gaza board: UN official encourages Indonesia to review its participation in U.S.-backed Gaza initiative.
• PODCAST: Cybersecurity flaw, Russia-Ukraine and Brazil's phone problem: Podcast features discussion of a new cybersecurity vulnerability, Russia-Ukraine developments, and telecom issues in Brazil.
• Opinion | Putin Plays Hostage Geopolitics: Commentary on Russia’s use of geopolitical leverage in hostage situations.
• Opinion | Trump’s New Global Triumvirate?: Analysis explores the evolving dynamics between Trump, Xi Jinping, and Vladimir Putin.
• National Security: Ongoing updates on key national security policy and political developments in the U.S.

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