Donald Trump has tough choice after Barack Obama sanctions

By Nick Wadhams

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama is forcing his successor, Donald Trump, into a difficult choice: reverse the sanctions the departing president just imposed on Russia for hacking emails in the US election or put at risk his campaign vow to improve relations with Vladimir Putin.

Hours after Obama imposed penalties on Russian agencies, individuals and companies and ordered the expulsion of 35 Russian operatives Thursday, Trump issued a terse statement far milder than his previous assertions that Democratic emails may well have been stolen and leaked by "somebody sitting on their bed that weighs 400 pounds."

While the sanctions and expulsions, imposed by executive order, can be undone with the stroke of a pen, Trump may find it politically difficult to do so as key Republicans in Congress expressed support for Obama's move.

Obama's action was the second time in a week that his administration moved forcefully in its final weeks on an issue where Trump has signalled he intends a drastic change in course.

The US abstained in the United Nations Security Council, allowing passage of a resolution condemning Israeli settlements. Signalling he'll make a quick about-face on criticism of Israel, Trump tweeted on Wednesday, "Stay strong Israel, January 20th is fast approaching!"

When asked if Trump would reverse the actions against Russia, Priebus demurred, saying the president-elect needed to consult with military and intelligence advisers. "It's going to be up to him," Priebus said.