A senior US official indicated that sanctions targeting Russia’s key trading partners are set to launch on Friday following a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkov, on Wednesday.
Trump described the meeting as “very productive,” suggesting that “great progress” was made during their time together.
This encounter, which marked the fifth such discussion since Trump took office, reportedly lasted about three hours and was described as positive by the senior official.
Officials speaking on the condition of anonymity mentioned that Russia is keen to maintain dialogue with the United States.
In July, Trump warned that if Russia did not agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine within two months, it could face “severe” tariffs. He proposed imposing 100% “secondary” tariffs on any nation engaging economically with the Kremlin, particularly regarding oil and gas purchases.
On Friday, Trump narrowed down the deadline, expressing uncertainty about how deeply the sanctions would impact Russia’s economy.
“I don’t know if sanctions will affect him. Do you? They’re aware of the sanctions. I probably know more about them than anyone else. I’m just not sure if it will make a difference,” Trump remarked on July 31.
In his remarks about the meeting with Witkov, Trump did not bring up sanctions or tariffs.
“Afterwards, I updated some European allies, and there is a consensus that this war needs to end,” the president stated.
On Wednesday, he signed an executive order to increase tariffs on Russian oil purchases, proposing a rise to 50% from the previous 25%. This new import duty is expected to take effect in about three weeks.
Trump commented in an interview that countries buying Russian oil are supporting the conflict. India responded by emphasizing the necessity of purchasing Russian oil to stabilize its energy costs.
Senators Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) spearheaded a significant sanctions bill against Russia, attracting over 85 co-sponsors in the Senate. The proposed legislation would impose 500% tariffs on countries acquiring Russian oil, gas, and uranium.
However, the senators went on break for August without moving forward on the bill.
“I suggest 500%. If it’s 250%, that’s manageable. Even at 100%, we should definitely consider strong sanctions to halt Russia’s war efforts,” one of the senators stated.
Kiril Dmitriev, Putin’s investment envoy, described the meeting as “constructive,” affirming that the ongoing US-Russia dialogue is crucial for global peace and security.
According to Russian state media, diplomatic aide Yury Ushakov noted that “signals” regarding Ukraine from both sides had been received positively after the meeting.
Trump, who has previously advocated for ending the long-standing conflict in Eastern Europe, has shown frustration with Putin in recent weeks, especially regarding attacks in civilian areas.
In recent developments, Ukrainian President Voldymir Zelensky reported that Russian troops raided recreation centers in the Zaporidia region.
“Whatever messages the Kremlin conveys, under pressure, they seem inclined to cease hostilities. Strengthening the influence of the US, Europe, and the G7 is vital to facilitate a swift ceasefire,” he remarked.
