U.S. threatens sanctions on Russia as strikes intensify

U.S. President Donald Trump has revealed that his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, may travel to Russia this coming week, potentially on Wednesday or Thursday as Trump warned that if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to a deal by 8 August, Washington will impose new economic sanctions.

"Well, there'll be sanctions, but they seem to be pretty good at avoiding sanctions. You know, they're wily characters," Trump told reporters. "Steve is focused right now on the border in terms of Gaza, getting people fed. And he may be going... I think next week, Wednesday or Thursday, may be going to Russia. They've asked that he meet. So we'll see what happens."

The announcement follows a shift in tone from the U.S. president, who has recently distanced himself from earlier conciliatory rhetoric towards Moscow. Instead, Trump has signalled increased support for Ukraine, including openness to sending more military aid if Russia fails to halt its attacks.

While Witkoff’s trip may include humanitarian discussions linked to Gaza, Trump confirmed that Russian officials have invited him for talks, indicating a possible diplomatic opening.

Frontlines heating up

The diplomatic efforts come amid an intensifying conflict. Russia has claimed gains in Donetsk, Sumy, and Kharkiv, while also announcing it had struck Ukrainian drone facilities and shot down more than 300 Ukrainian drones in one day.

In response, Ukraine launched a series of drone strikes deep inside Russian territory, targeting fuel storage sites, a drone operations base, and an electronics plant. Several people were reported killed or injured in the attacks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia had launched more than 5,000 glide bombs and thousands of drones in July alone, urging the international community to toughen sanctions and halt the attacks.

Countdown to 8 August

President Trump has drawn a clear line, stating that if Moscow does not move towards a ceasefire by 8 August, new sanctions will follow. While the administration has not yet detailed the scope of the measures, they are expected to target key Russian economic sectors.

Witkoff’s potential trip to Russia could play a role in testing the Kremlin’s willingness to negotiate. The U.S. has not confirmed whether the envoy will meet Putin directly, but Trump said Russia “would like to see him,” adding that the visit will depend on evolving circumstances.

With tensions rising and the conflict escalating, the coming days are likely to determine whether diplomacy can gain ground or whether Washington will escalate pressure through fresh sanctions.

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