MOSCOW, Aug 4: As U.S. President Donald Trump’s Friday deadline for a Russia-Ukraine peace deal approaches, tensions are rising.
Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, is expected in Moscow midweek to push for a ceasefire or face tough new US sanctions, including secondary measures targeting Russian oil sales to China and India.
Despite pressure, President Putin shows no signs of backing down and has introduced a new hypersonic missile.
Fighting continues along the front, with Russia pushing toward Pokrovsk and over 12,000 Ukrainian civilians killed. Ukraine is also striking inside Russia using long-range drones.
Trump has expressed doubt over sanctions’ effectiveness and repositioned US nuclear submarines after Russian threats. US officials warn support could wane if peace efforts fail. (AP)
