On August 6, Steve Witkoff, Trump's special envoy, arrived in Moscow and was met by Kirill Dmitriev. They traveled together, likely for a meeting between Witkoff and Vladimir Putin. Amid ongoing debate over possible tariffs or sanctions against Russia should it refuse to end the war with Ukraine, Trump stated he made no specific announcements about tariff rates for Russia's trading partners, despite previous mentions of 100% tariffs for China and India.
Recent shelling statistics show nightly drone attacks from both sides. Drones hit the Tatinskaya railway station in Russia’s Rostov region for a second consecutive night, with fuel tanks reportedly exploding. In Ukraine’s Odesa and Zaporizhzhia regions, drone attacks caused casualties and damaged infrastructure.
Politically, the US is preparing possible new sanctions targeting Russian tankers, although enforcement remains a challenge. Trump reportedly gave Putin an ultimatum to agree to a ceasefire by Friday. Meanwhile, Washington is hosting talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as their leaders may sign a peace agreement at the White House.
Western media remain skeptical about the imposition of 100% US tariffs on countries buying Russian oil. The White House announced an upcoming Trump address where more decisions may be detailed.
The US State Department approved two contracts worth over $200 million to help Ukraine repair M77 howitzers and provide logistics support, representing moderate but significant military aid. Meanwhile, Russia's economy faces mounting difficulties, reflected in a rising number of liquidated companies.
The article stresses the importance of monitoring further developments: sanctions, ongoing negotiations, the frontline situation, and Trump’s preparation for the US presidential campaign.
