**Russia Considers Air Truce Proposal to Trump Without Ending War**
The Kremlin is considering a proposal to pause its long-range strike campaign in Ukraine as a potential concession to US President Donald Trump, even as it remains committed to continuing the war. This development comes as Russia has only three days left until the deadline set by Trump on July 29 to end its war in Ukraine.
According to Bloomberg, Russian officials are exploring options ahead of a visit by US envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow this week. One possible offer under consideration is a limited “air truce” involving a pause in drone and missile strikes, but only if Ukraine agrees to participate. This proposal was also raised last week by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko during talks with Putin.
The idea of an air truce was first discussed by Lukashenko with Trump’s Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg during a rare US visit to Belarus in June. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed the importance of the meetings with Witkoff, but declined to comment on any specific proposals.
Trump confirmed on Aug 3 that Witkoff may travel to Russia on Aug 6 or 7. “I think next week, Wednesday or Thursday, (he) may be going to Russia,” Trump told reporters. “They would like to see him. They’ve asked that he meet, so we’ll see what happens.”
**Analysis**
The Kremlin’s consideration of an air truce proposal is a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While it remains committed to continuing the war, Moscow is seeking ways to ease mounting pressure from Trump. As one Kremlin-aligned political analyst noted, “Trump needs some kind of a ‘gift,’ a concession from Russia,” and an air truce could be such a gift.
However, the proposal’s feasibility is uncertain, as Ukraine has not yet agreed to participate in such a truce. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he held productive phone talks with Trump on Aug 5, including discussions on sanctions and recent Russian air strikes on Ukrainian cities.
**What’s Next?**
The visit by US envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow this week will be closely watched, as it may provide further clarity on the Kremlin’s intentions. Meanwhile, US officials have criticized Witkoff’s interactions with Putin, citing concerns over his use of Kremlin-provided translators and repetition of Russian narratives about the war.
As the deadline set by Trump approaches, it remains to be seen whether Russia will make any significant concessions or continue its military campaign in Ukraine. One thing is certain, however: the situation on the ground will only become more complex and volatile as tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate.
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