Trump Issues Putin Ultimatum. His Envoy Lands in Moscow

US President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, has arrived in Moscow for talks on ending Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Wednesday's dialogue between the representatives will determine whether the US president will impose harsh tariffs and sanctions on Russia and countries that purchase its oil. His ultimatum to Russia expires on Friday.

Witkoff , one of the closest aides of the American president, has met with Vladimir Putin many times in Russia, but so far these talks have not resulted in a breakthrough in ending the war in Ukraine.

SEE: Trump's envoy denies Lukashenko's words. "Taken out of context"

Considered a proponent of returning to business with Russia, Witkoff has been criticized for echoing Kremlin themes and narratives and for failing to utilize American intelligence protection in Moscow. It is unclear how long his visit to the Russian capital will last.

On July 29, Trump announced that he would impose new sanctions on Russia in 10 days if Moscow did not take steps to reach an agreement to end the war. This ultimatum expires on Friday, August 8.

SEE: Zelensky spoke with Trump. "This could change a lot"

According to unofficial information provided by the US media, Trump is skeptical about the possibility of achieving a breakthrough on the war in Ukraine during Witkoff's visit. Reuters, citing three sources close to the Kremlin, reported that Putin has no intention of bowing to Trump's ultimatum, and that Russians do not believe that the US resorting to new sanctions would spell disaster for them.

According to Bloomberg, Russia will not agree to a ceasefire but is considering a ceasefire that includes air operations . When asked about this, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce declined to say whether such a proposal would satisfy Washington, saying that President Trump would make the decision.