**Last-Ditch Effort to Avoid Sanctions: Trump’s Envoy Arrives in Moscow**
In a move that is being closely watched by experts, US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff has arrived in Moscow for talks with Russian officials. The visit comes as the Kremlin makes a last-ditch effort to avoid new sanctions threatened by the Trump administration.
According to reports, Witkoff landed at Moscow’s Vnukovo Airport on August 6, and is expected to meet with high-ranking Russian officials, potentially including President Vladimir Putin himself. This meeting is seen as crucial in determining whether Russia can convince the US that it is serious about ending its war in Ukraine.
However, experts say that this effort may be unlikely to change Trump’s course of action. The Trump administration has been clear in its skepticism towards Putin’s intentions, with Trump publicly casting doubt on his willingness to stop the fighting. This has led some to question whether Putin can convince Witkoff – and by extension Trump – that he is serious about ending the conflict.
**New Sanctions Looming**
The threat of new sanctions hangs heavy over Russia, with the US considering measures against its “shadow fleet” of oil tankers if a ceasefire in Ukraine is not agreed to by August 8. This move would deal a significant blow to Russia’s economy and add to the pressure on Putin to negotiate.
Meanwhile, Putin has maintained his maximalist ambitions for the war, including seizing more Ukrainian territory and limiting the size of Ukraine’s military. This stance has only served to heighten tensions with the West, and has led some experts to question whether Witkoff’s visit will have any significant impact on the conflict.
**Criticism of Witkoff’s Role**
Witkoff himself has faced criticism for his perceived closeness to Moscow and his willingness to repeat Russian propaganda narratives. His recent push to lift energy sanctions on Russia has only added to the skepticism surrounding his role in these talks.
As Trump prepares to make a decision on whether to impose new sanctions, it remains to be seen whether Putin can convince Witkoff – and by extension the US administration – that he is serious about ending the conflict. The outcome of these talks will have significant implications for the future of Ukraine, Russia, and the West as a whole.
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