Kibonge made the remarks after screening his film Identity in Memphis, Tennessee, on October 16, 2026. He shared footage from the event alongside a message praising the President.
'A night for my Movies in Memphis. There is nothing PK [a nickname commonly used by young people to refer to President Paul Kagame] would not do for us,' he said.
Kibonge produced Identity in France while attending the Off Courts Festival, where the film was first screened in September 2026.
He is among four Rwandans who travelled to the United States through a partnership between Mashariki Arts Academy and Hattiloo Theatre in Memphis. The programme aims to strengthen the skills of professionals working in the arts and theatre industry.
The other participants are Emmanuel Mugisha, Simon Iyarwema, Clémence Nahimana, known artistically as Feruje na Shenge, and Adolphe Shyaka.
As part of the programme, Kibonge is expected to take part in a month-long training programme. He is also scheduled to meet fans in Austin, Texas, on October 17, 2026.
The event in Austin was organised in collaboration with Joshua Ramjaane, a Rwandan entertainer based in the United States.
Kibonge and Ramjaane previously performed together as members of a comedy group known as Abanyagasani.
Clapton Kibonge set to perform in Austin, TexasClapton Kibonge screens his film in the United StatesClapton Kibonge heads to Texas after film screening, invited by former 'Abanyagasani' colleague.
The 33-year-old singer paid tribute to Parton by performing 'Jolene', one of the country star's most famous songs, while reflecting on their close relationship and the memories they shared.
According to People magazine, Cyrus spoke to the audience before the performance, recalling the only time she had watched Parton perform live at the Hollywood Bowl.
Cyrus explained that she had wanted to experience the concert as an ordinary fan rather than join her godmother on stage.
Parton agreed, but later surprised the audience by performing 'The Best of Both Worlds', the theme song from Hannah Montana, and announcing that Cyrus was watching from the crowd.
Cyrus said the memory had become particularly meaningful following Parton's death.
'Like so many things Dolly did, that I didn't understand it at the time, sitting here with you all right now, feeling her all around me, knowing that she's right here beside me every day, all the time, more than she could be when she was here,' she told the audience.
She added that sharing the story made the experience even more precious.
'This memory is gold to me,' Cyrus said.
Overcome with emotion, the singer also spoke about the enduring bond between them.
'Me and Dolly, we are eternal. Nothing in this life could tear us apart,' she said, adding that she looked forward to seeing her godmother again because she missed her.
Parton died on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a musical legacy that influenced generations of artists.
Cyrus had known Parton since birth. The country star became her godmother after developing a close friendship with Cyrus's father, singer Billy Ray Cyrus, during the 1990s.
Their relationship extended beyond family ties into their professional lives.
Parton appeared as a recurring character on Hannah Montana, the Disney Channel series that helped launch Cyrus's career, playing her character's fairy godmother in three episodes between 2006 and 2010.
The two singers also collaborated on music, including a version of Cyrus's 2013 hit 'Wrecking Ball' for Parton's 2023 album Rockstar.
Cyrus affectionately referred to Parton as 'Aunt Dolly' and previously credited her with teaching her the importance of treating people with love and respect.
Following Parton's death, Cyrus shared a heartfelt message on social media, describing their most meaningful moments as private memories that would remain between them.
The Hollywood Bowl tribute offered another public expression of that relationship, celebrating not only Parton's music but also the lasting influence she had on Cyrus's life.
Miley Cyrus performs 'Jolene' in tribute to her late godmother, Dolly Parton, during a concert at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on October 16, 2026.
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, identified a network of brain cells that regulates growth hormone release during sleep and discovered that the hormone also sends signals back to the brain to influence wakefulness.
The findings are based on research by UC Berkeley scientists published in the journal Cell.
The study examined how the brain balances hormone production and sleep using experiments involving mice.
Growth hormone plays an important role in childhood development, helping the body grow, strengthen bones and build muscle.
In adults, it continues to support muscle maintenance, bone health and the way the body processes stored fat and regulates blood sugar.
Scientists have long understood that growth hormone release is closely linked to sleep. However, the precise brain mechanisms controlling this relationship have remained unclear.
'We're actually directly recording neural activity in mice to see what's going on,' said Xinlu Ding, the study's first author and a postdoctoral researcher at UC Berkeley.
The research team focused on the hypothalamus, a region deep within the brain that helps regulate hormones, hunger and the sleep-wake cycle.
Researchers examined nerve cells that produce growth hormone-releasing hormone, which stimulates growth hormone production, and somatostatin, which suppresses it.
Using electrodes to record brain activity and light to stimulate specific nerve cells, the scientists observed how these signals changed as mice moved between sleep stages.
They found that different patterns of activity during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM sleep helped promote growth hormone release.
The study also revealed that growth hormone influences the locus coeruleus, a brain region involved in alertness, attention and cognitive function.
As growth hormone levels rise during sleep, the hormone stimulates this region, helping regulate the transition towards wakefulness.
This creates a two-way relationship in which sleep encourages hormone release, while the hormone helps regulate when the brain becomes alert.
Daniel Silverman, a UC Berkeley postdoctoral researcher and study co-author, said the findings suggest that sleep and growth hormone form a closely balanced system.
The discovery could eventually inform research into treatments for sleep disorders and conditions associated with disrupted metabolism, including diabetes, as well as neurological diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
However, the experiments were conducted in mice, meaning further research is needed to establish whether the same mechanisms operate in humans and whether they can safely be targeted by treatments.
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have identified a brain circuit linking sleep, growth hormone release and wakefulness, offering new insights into physical recovery and brain health.
The attacks, reported on Friday, October 16, damaged homes and other civilian infrastructure, according to Ukrainian officials, while Russia continued its aerial campaign against the country's energy facilities.
The strikes come amid worsening relations between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, raising concerns that strained ties with Washington could leave Kyiv more vulnerable to further Russian attacks.
Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukraine's power infrastructure ahead of winter, threatening electricity, heating and water supplies relied upon by civilians during the cold months. Ukrainian officials have warned that Moscow is stockpiling ballistic missiles for further attacks.
However, the campaign against energy infrastructure has also involved Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil facilities. Kyiv has targeted Russian refineries and other energy assets, arguing that they help finance and sustain Moscow's war effort.
Ukraine struck a refinery in Russia's Ryazan region on Thursday, October 15, after announcing that it would no longer observe a brief suspension of attacks on energy targets, saying Russia had failed to respect the arrangement.
The Kremlin, meanwhile, said the terms of an energy truce had not been agreed upon. Trump had called for both sides to halt attacks on energy infrastructure.
Zelenskyy calls for support as tensions with Trump grow
Zelenskyy attended a European Union summit in Brussels on Friday, where leaders pledged continued support for Ukraine and urged Washington to maintain pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Speaking to reporters, Zelenskyy said Ukraine wanted to end the war but had seen no indication that Moscow was ready to stop its military campaign.
'We want to end this war as quickly as possible. We do not see signals from the Russian side that they are ready for this, to end this war. That's why we have to prepare for the winter,' Zelenskyy said.
His remarks came as tensions with Trump intensified following public criticism from the US president, who said he did not consider Zelenskyy a good person for the United States to deal with.
Zelenskyy also raised concerns about disruptions to military satellite communications and Ukraine's difficulties obtaining US-made Patriot air defence missiles, which are needed to intercept Russian ballistic missile attacks.
The Ukrainian leader criticised Trump's diesel deal with Russia, saying it could undermine international efforts to isolate Moscow over its invasion.
He also appealed to Americans who support Ukraine, saying: 'There are so many people with good hearts in America who sincerely want evil to lose and Ukraine to stand strong. And at the end of the day, the American people will have their say.'
Europe pledges continued assistance
European leaders expressed concern over the deterioration in relations between Kyiv and Washington and called for continued support for Ukraine.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the bloc was struggling to persuade the United States to take a tougher approach towards Moscow.
'We are also trying to convince our American partners that if we want to end this war, then we have to squeeze the aggressor,' Kallas said. 'With our American allies it's very difficult at the moment.'
Zelenskyy told European leaders that Ukraine's war effort would cost about 155 billion euros, equivalent to $174 billion, next year, and that Kyiv would need at least 70 billion euros, or approximately $79 billion, in European assistance.
Meanwhile, Putin instructed Russia's military to continue its aerial campaign against Ukrainian infrastructure.
Russian military chief Valery Gerasimov told Putin that attacks on energy facilities, bridges, railways and data centres would continue.
Civilian casualties rise sharply
The latest attacks come amid a sharp increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine.
According to a report by the United Nations human rights office in Ukraine, at least 328 civilians were killed and 2,105 injured in September. The total represented an 85 per cent increase in casualties compared with September last year.
Danielle Bell, head of the UN human rights office in Ukraine, said the recent attacks had taken a heavy toll on civilians.
'The first two weeks of October were among the deadliest periods for civilians in years,' Bell said.
Zaporizhzhia in eastern Ukraine came under renewed attack overnight.
The latest edition comes as participants in previous competitions continue to make their mark in various creative fields, including music, poetry, comedy, film and fashion.
Some have released albums and performed on international stages, while others have directed music videos for prominent artists or established businesses that create jobs for others.
Launched by Imbuto Foundation in 2018, ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi provides a platform for young people to showcase their talents, develop their skills and explore opportunities in the creative industry.
Through competitions, training and engagement with experienced professionals, participants have gained skills and opportunities to advance their careers and develop their projects.
Their achievements also reflect their individual efforts, the businesses and initiatives they have established, and the partnerships they have built along the way.
As the fourth edition gets underway, IGIHE looks at some of the programme's alumni and how they have developed their talents into careers and businesses, while contributing to Rwanda's growing creative industry.
Jean Chrétien Munezero (MJC)
Jean Chrétien Munezero, popularly known as MJC, is among the talents who participated in the first edition of ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi in 2018.
That year, he won first place in the photography and video production category, receiving a cash prize of Rwf 1 million.
Following the competition, he continued to develop his talent, eventually founding Uniquo Creations in 2022, a company specialising in video production and editing.
According to Imbuto Foundation's 2024/2025 report, MJC had produced more than 20 music videos.
Among the videos he has directed are Nibido by Christopher and Beauty on Fire by Bruce Melodie and Joeboy, which he worked on with Bahali Ruth.
MJC is among the competition's alumni who have successfully turned their talent in video production and editing into a profession, working with artists and various organisations.
Carine Maniraguha (Carine Poet)
Carine Maniraguha, popularly known as Carine Poet, rose to prominence through poetry. In 2018, she won first place in the writing and poetry category of the ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi competition.
After the competition, she continued to develop her poetry career while also venturing into theatre, taking her work to audiences in Rwanda and abroad.
In 2025, Carine was among the cast members of the play Gahugu Gato, which was staged at the Festival d'Avignon in France.
That same year, she participated in ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi All Stars, where she and Gad Tuyizere tied for second place in the literature category, sharing a prize of Rwf 10 million.
Carine also runs Rangurura, a project that seeks to empower women and girls to make their voices heard through art and poetry.
Fally Merci
Ndaruhutse Merci, popularly known as Fally Merci, is one of the comedians who participated in the first edition of ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi in 2018.
After gaining recognition through the competition, he continued pursuing comedy and later launched initiatives aimed at helping other comedians showcase their talents.
In March 2022, he founded Gen-Z Comedy, which initially operated from a tent at the ArtRwanda centre in Rugando.
A March 2025 report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) indicated that the initiative had helped more than 100 comedians develop their talents.
At the time, Gen-Z Comedy had six permanent employees and provided temporary employment to another 47 people.
In November 2025, Gen-Z Comedy signed an agreement with ZACU TV to broadcast its comedy shows.
Fally Merci has expanded his career beyond performing comedy to establishing a platform that helps other talented individuals access opportunities in the creative industry.
Boukuru
Christiane Uwase Bukuru, popularly known as Boukuru, is a singer who participated in the first edition of ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi in 2018.
She has built a name in music by blending soul and jazz with sounds rooted in Rwandan culture.
On September 6, 2024, Boukuru unveiled her debut album, Gikundiro, featuring 11 songs, during a concert held at Norrsken in Kigali.
She was later selected to perform at the 2025 edition of the Sauti za Busara Festival, held in Zanzibar.
That same year, Boukuru was named among the 10 finalists in the Prix Découvertes RFI competition.
These milestones have helped her bring her music to audiences in Rwanda and beyond.
Makembe
Ishimwe Michael, popularly known as Michael Makembe, is a singer, instrumentalist and music producer who participated in ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi in 2018.
Makembe is known for exploring and preserving traditional musical sounds while blending them with contemporary music production techniques.
Through his project, Sounds of Rwanda, he has travelled to different parts of the country to record the voices of traditional singers and sounds produced by traditional musical instruments.
In 2022, he composed music for Father's Day, a film by Kivu Ruhorahoza.
He has also contributed to music for theatre and dance productions, including umuko by Dorothée Munyaneza.
His works include Havumera Inka, Ikondera and Bagore Beza.
Makembe is among the artists demonstrating how traditional music can connect Rwanda's history and cultural heritage with contemporary artistic expression.
Munezero Jean Vainqueur
Munezero Jean Vainqueur is a fashion designer and the founder of the fashion brand Maison Munezero.
He participated in the first edition of ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi in 2018 and continued developing his work in fashion design and garment production.
In 2019, he showcased his designs at Rwanda Fashion Week.
In 2022, he was among six fashion designers who participated in the Austria–Rwanda Fashion Connect event held at Expo 2020 in Dubai.
In 2025, he took part in ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi All Stars, where his ready-to-wear clothing project earned him second place in the fashion category.
Munezero continues to develop Maison Munezero while expanding his activities in the fashion industry.
Tuyishime Anaclet
Tuyishime Anaclet is a fashion and accessories designer known for his project, Umuringa Fashion Code.
In 2022, he won first place in the fashion category of ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi.
His work focuses on creating shoes, bags and other accessories using leather and fabrics, combining these materials with his own creative ideas.
In 2025, he once again distinguished himself at ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi All Stars, winning first place in the fashion category.
For the competition, he presented a project focused on making shoes from recycled materials, giving previously used materials a new purpose.
The project demonstrates how creativity can contribute to business development while reducing waste that harms the environment.
Musafiri James
Musafiri James is a screenwriter and film director who participated in the second edition of ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi, launched in 2022.
He completed the competition's training programme in December 2024, having gained skills that helped him further develop his talent in filmmaking.
His work includes writing scripts for some of Rwanda's popular television series, including City Maid and Indoto.
In 2024, he wrote and directed the film Weaving Bonds, which tells the story of a parent who gradually comes to understand the value of their child's talent.
In 2025, Musafiri was among the award winners in the film category at ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi All Stars.
He has continued to apply his experience in screenwriting and film directing, particularly in productions that explore people's lives and social experiences.
The journeys of these artists demonstrate how creative talent can be turned into ventures that create jobs, support personal growth and contribute to preserving Rwandan culture.
Their achievements also serve as an example for young people participating in the fourth edition of ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi, showing that talent can become a source of growth and opportunity when supported by knowledge, dedication and collaboration.
Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera welcomes visitors with wide open grasslands, sprawling lakes, vibrant wetlands, and rich wildlife. Whether travelling with friends, family, or on a solo adventure, the park offers tailored experiences that can turn an ordinary weekend into a memorable safari escape.
Beyond its natural beauty, a visit to Akagera is an opportunity to witness one of Africa's greatest ecological restoration stories. Managed jointly by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and African Parks, the reserve was restored to Big Five status following the successful reintroduction of lions in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017, followed by white rhinos.
Today, backed by robust community partnerships and vigilant anti-poaching teams, Akagera's wildlife populations are thriving across diverse habitats.
The classic game drive
One of the most exciting ways to explore Akagera is through a classic game drive. The park is home to Africa's Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes—alongside giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and hundreds of bird species.
Tourists photograph an elephant during a game drive in Akagera National Park.
Each drive offers a fresh perspective as visitors traverse changing landscapes, moving from woodland to open plains in search of animals in their natural habitats. Although sightings are never guaranteed, the thrill of anticipation is an integral part of the adventure.
For visitors planning a day trip, an early start is essential. The park allows self-drive exploration between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. A high-clearance four-wheel-drive (4×4) vehicle is strongly recommended for navigating the park's dirt tracks and seasonal terrain.
To maximize your wildlife spotting, hiring an official park guide at the entrance ($25 for half-day, $40 for full-day) is highly recommended—their trained eyes drastically increase your chances of tracking elusive big cats.
Discover the park after dark
For those spending the night inside the park, a guided night drive offers an exclusive look into Akagera's nocturnal wildlife. Guided by experienced park rangers using powerful spotlights, visitors may encounter species rarely seen during the daytime, such as bush babies, civets, genets, and hyenas.
A leopard prowls through the thick vegetation of Akagera National Park during a nocturnal safari.
Night drives also offer a thrilling chance to see predators actively moving and hunting after sunset. Night drives cost $40 per person (2.5-hour duration), are available exclusively to overnight guests, and should be booked in advance at the reception.
Cruise across Lake Ihema
A boat trip on Lake Ihema, Rwanda's second-largest lake after Lake Kivu, offers a peaceful yet exhilarating perspective of Akagera. Moving along the water, visitors can observe vast pods of hippos, large Nile crocodiles basking on the banks, and a myriad of waterbirds fluttering along the papyrus-lined shores.
Scheduled boat excursions operate daily.
Scheduled boat excursions operate daily at 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, and 3:00 PM ($35 per person). The highly sought-after 4:30 PM sunset trip ($45 per person) offers spectacular views as the setting sun paints golden hues across the serene waters.
A paradise for birdwatchers
Akagera is a premier destination for birdwatchers, boasting over 500 recorded species. Its unique wetland habitats, lakes, and savannah ecosystems attract a vast variety of waterbirds, raptors, and rare species, including the elusive Shoebill stork around the northern swamps.
Akagera is a premier destination for birdwatchers, boasting over 500 recorded species.
Visitors are encouraged to pack binoculars and spend time observing birdlife around Lake Ihema and the park's wetland boardwalks. Even travelers without specialized ornithological knowledge will find the incredible variety and vibrant plumage of Akagera's birds captivating.
Where to stay & refresh
Rather than rushing back to Kigali after a day in the park, extending your trip with an overnight stay allows you to experience early-morning game viewings and evening activities that aren't feasible on a day trip. Akagera offers accommodation for every style and budget:
Luxury: Ruzizi Tented Lodge — Eco-luxury tented lodge situated directly on the timber decks of Lake Ihema, offering an intimate wilderness experience.
Ultra-Luxury: Magashi Camp — An exclusive, high-end tented camp located in the game-rich sector of the far north.
Mid-Range Comfort: Akagera Game Lodge (Mantala) — Perched on a ridge near the South Gate, featuring comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and sweeping lake views—ideal for families.
Budget & Camping: Designated campsites such as Shakani (lakeside), Muyumbu (ridge views), and Mutamba offer serene spots to camp under the stars for $25/night per person. Canvas tents are also available for hire.
Essential logistics & travel planning
Distance & Drive Time: 110 km from Kigali (~2.5 hours on paved tarmac to the South Gate in Kayonza). Leaving Kigali by 5:00 AM gets you to the gate as it opens at 6:00 AM.
Park Entry Fees (24-hr Pass): Rwandan/EAC Citizens: RWF 15,000 | EAC Residents: $50 USD | International Visitors: $100 USD.
Vehicle Fees & Payments: Rwandan/EAC registered light vehicles pay ~$10–$12 USD. Akagera operates a 100% CASHLESS payment system (MTN Mobile Money, Visa, MasterCard, or Bank Transfer at the gate).
Essential Packing List: Binoculars, camera with zoom lens, dust mask/buff, sunscreen, sun hat, warm layers for chilly morning drives, and plenty of snacks/water.
Whether you have a single day or an entire weekend, Akagera National Park delivers the ideal blend of adventure and relaxation. For a one-day visit, prioritize a early 6:00 AM game drive followed by an afternoon boat excursion on Lake Ihema. Those staying overnight can enrich their itinerary with a night drive or dedicated birdwatching.
For anyone feeling the need to step away from Kigali without leaving Rwanda, Akagera offers a powerful reminder that world-class wilderness, thriving wildlife, and moments of pure calm are closer to home than expected.
Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera welcomes visitors with wide open grasslands, sprawling lakes, vibrant wetlands, and rich wildlife.
The call was made by He Ping, President of the Belt and Road Journalists Network and a member of the Presidium of the All-China Journalists Association, during the official opening of the Belt and Road Journalists Forum in Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, China, on October 17, 2026.
Held under the theme 'Convergence and Connectivity, Innovation and Progress, Media Transformation Amid Global Changes,' the forum brought together media representatives from more than 50 countries and regions.
He said the imbalance raised fundamental questions about who shapes international narratives and determines how countries and their histories are understood.
'Who gets to draw the map of humanity and human history? And who gets the right to define it for us in the new media landscape?' he asked.
He described addressing the imbalance as a historic responsibility, urging journalists to document the transformations taking place across Global South countries, including their pursuit of independent development paths, preservation of cultural heritage and efforts towards unity, self-reliance and progress.
'We must tell the stories of profound transformation across their vast lands, document the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations, and reflect their tireless efforts towards unity, self-reliance and progress,' he said.
He added that the stories of the Global South should be seen, its voice heard, its interests protected and its contributions recognized.
The main forum was preceded by themed seminars that brought together journalists from over 50 countries across the world.
'AI must not compromise journalistic credibility'
He also called on media professionals to promote peace, fairness and cooperation through reporting that challenges prejudice and moves beyond narratives shaped by confrontation and zero-sum thinking.
Citing Chinese President Xi Jinping's Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, Global Civilization Initiative and Global Governance Initiative, he said international cooperation was essential to addressing challenges related to development, security and governance.
Turning to technological change, he said artificial intelligence was reshaping news production and editorial workflows, making adaptation essential for media organizations.
'Adapting to change and embracing new technology is no longer a matter of choice; it is an imperative,' he said.
However, he cautioned that AI adoption must not undermine factual accuracy, originality or human editorial responsibility.
'How can we uphold the essential purpose of human editorial responsibility, factual accuracy and originality?' he asked, highlighting questions journalists must address as AI becomes increasingly integrated into newsrooms.
'AI can be a powerful tool, but we must never surrender our responsibility to artificial intelligence,' he said, emphasizing the need to balance technological innovation with established journalistic principles.
Mo Gaoyi, Deputy Head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of the State Council Information Office of China, highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative's contribution to international economic cooperation.
China's trade with Belt and Road partner countries reached RMB 23.6 trillion (over US$3.5 trillion) in 2025, increasing by 6.3% and accounting for 51.9% of the country's total foreign trade.
Mo called on media organizations to strengthen international understanding and amplify Global South perspectives, while Puy Kea, rotating President of the Belt and Road Journalists Association, emphasized inclusive representation, credible reporting and the responsible use of technology to bridge information gaps.
Xi Ying, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Jiangsu Provincial Committee, urged journalists to document the outcomes of Belt and Road cooperation, including technological innovation, rural development and cultural exchanges.
He also stressed the importance of countering disinformation and safeguarding a fair and rational global communication environment.
Officials and media association representatives from different regions graced the official opening of the forum.
In an executive order released by the White House on Friday, October 16, Trump said the decision was in the national interest of the United States.
'I have submitted to the Congress a certification that the issuance of such a waiver at this time is in the national interests of the United States,' Trump said in the order, according to Reuters.
The measures were part of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, legislation intended to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
The law provided for tariffs of up to 100% on goods imported into the United States from the five largest buyers of Russian crude oil or natural gas.
It also targeted countries that continued buying Russian oil or gas under specified conditions or were among the leading countries helping Russia evade sanctions.
The waiver will remain in place until Trump or senior officials in his administration determine that further action is appropriate.
The decision comes as the United States approaches its November midterm elections, when Trump's Republican Party will seek to maintain its narrow majorities in Congress.
Analysts have warned that imposing the tariffs could push oil prices higher, adding to pressure on American consumers already facing increased costs linked partly to the US-Israeli war involving Iran.
China and India, two major buyers of Russian oil, have also raised concerns about the legislation.
Beijing has opposed what it describes as the application of foreign laws beyond a country's jurisdiction, while India has warned that additional tariffs could affect its relations with Washington.
The decision has drawn criticism from US lawmakers who support tougher measures against Russia.
Democratic Representative Don Beyer accused Trump of weakening support for Ukraine and undermining Congress's intention to punish Moscow for its invasion.
'Trump's latest surrender to Putin again betrays our Ukrainian partners and defies clear congressional intent of legislation designed to punish Russia for its illegal war of aggression,' Beyer said in a statement.
Trump has also faced criticism over a recent agreement involving Russian diesel supplies, under which Washington agreed to lift sanctions on certain Russian exports in an effort to ease global fuel prices.
Russian officials have welcomed the US administration's moves towards economic cooperation.
Kirill Dmitriev, Russian President Vladimir Putin's investment envoy, described the latest waiver as 'a truly historic moment' in a post on X.
The waiver leaves the administration with the option of introducing the measures later, while the war in Ukraine and disagreements over relations with Moscow continue to shape US foreign policy.
US President Donald Trump has waived key Russia-related sanctions and tariffs days before they were due to take effect under a law passed in September 2026.
In a message posted on X on Saturday, October 17, Muhoozi congratulated Kagame and Rwanda on the achievement.
'I want to congratulate H.E. @PaulKagame and Rwanda for the return of Formula 1 to the African continent after 33 years. Hongera sana,' he wrote.
Muhoozi joins several African leaders who have congratulated Rwanda on securing a 10-year agreement to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, with the championship expected to return to the continent in the early 2030s.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema also congratulated Kagame and the Rwandan people, describing the agreement as a significant achievement for the country and Africa.
'Congratulations to my brother, President @PaulKagame and the people of Rwanda on securing the @F1 Formula 1 African Grand Prix. This historic achievement reflects your resilience, vision, and smart hard work. Zambia shares your pride in this milestone for Rwanda and Africa,' Hichilema wrote.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has also offered his country's support as Rwanda prepares to host the race.
In a message posted on X on Thursday, October 15, Kagame thanked Ramaphosa for his congratulations and offer of assistance, saying Rwanda looked forward to working with South Africa and other partners to ensure the event benefits the continent.
'We look forward to working with you and all those who share this vision, to make this Grand Prix truly African in every way possible, and to raise the level of motorsport on this continent,' Kagame wrote.
Ramaphosa had congratulated Rwanda on securing the 10-year hosting agreement and expressed South Africa's readiness to share its experience in organising major international sporting events.
South Africa hosted the last Formula 1 race on African soil at the Kyalami circuit in 1993. The country has also been pursuing a return to the championship, alongside Rwanda, Morocco and Nigeria.
Rwanda and Formula 1 confirmed the 10-year agreement on October 13, with the race expected to take place in the early 2030s following the construction of a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera District, near Kigali.
The planned circuit is designed to meet the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile's (FIA) Grade 1 requirements for Formula 1 racing.
The project is part of Rwanda's broader ambitions to develop sports infrastructure, attract tourism and investment, create jobs and expand opportunities for local businesses.
Kagame has said the ambition extends beyond hosting a race, expressing hope that the Grand Prix will help strengthen motorsport across Africa and encourage the continent to host more international races.
Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has congratulated Rwanda and President Paul Kagame on securing a deal to bring Formula 1 back to Africa after three decades.
The 56-year-old rapper was moved from the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Fort Dix to FCI Allenwood Low, a low-security prison located near Williamsport, Pennsylvania, according to The Associated Press (AP), which cited a person familiar with the matter.
The US Bureau of Prisons confirmed the transfer but declined to explain the reasons behind the decision.
'Decisions about inmate placement are made by the BOP, and we are not in a position to speak to the circumstances surrounding this transfer,' Combs' spokesperson, Juda Engelmayer, said.
He added that Combs remained focused on moving forward and expressed hope that his time at the new facility would be productive and free from unnecessary disruption.
The transfer comes after NBC News reported in September that Combs had allegedly maintained aspects of his wealthy lifestyle while imprisoned at Fort Dix.
The report claimed he had access to prohibited items, including alcohol and a cellphone, and that other inmates prepared meals, cleaned for him and provided massages.
The allegations raised questions about whether the music executive was receiving preferential treatment in prison.
Earlier this week, entertainment news outlet TMZ reported that Combs had been injured in a fight with another inmate and taken out of the facility for medical treatment.
However, the Bureau of Prisons rejected the report. In a statement to AP, the agency said: 'The story you are referring to is false and did not happen.'
Following the NBC News report, Combs was placed in a special housing unit, a more restricted area used for inmates facing disciplinary issues or security concerns.
A person familiar with the matter also told AP that Combs had lost 41 days of good-conduct credit, pushing his projected release date to March 2, 2028.
Combs is serving a four-year, two-month prison sentence after being convicted in 2025 on prostitution-related charges involving the transportation of people across state lines for sexual encounters.
He was acquitted of more serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges.
In April 2026, his lawyers asked the 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn his conviction and sentence, arguing that the punishment was too harsh. The court has yet to issue a ruling.
The transfer marks another development in the legal troubles of one of the most influential figures in American hip-hop, whose criminal case has drawn widespread public attention.
Sean 'Diddy' Combs has been transferred from a federal prison in New Jersey to FCI Allenwood Low in Pennsylvania while serving a sentence for prostitution-related offences.
