President Donald Trump has stated there is a “very good prospect” of a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, following what he called “constructive” discussions between his envoy and the Kremlin.
Donald Trump on Wednesday raised the possibility of a peace summit with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky after a high-level meeting in Moscow involving his representative, Steve Witkoff. The president, who had previously claimed he could end the conflict in a day, indicated that both parties had exchanged “constructive signals.”
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump mentioned that Russia had shown interest in further discussions and a potential meeting. “Everyone agrees this war must come to an end,” he posted on his Truth Social platform, adding that he had informed key European allies after the visit to Moscow.
The Kremlin confirmed the talks but issued a vague statement, only saying that “signals were exchanged” during the meeting. No specific date for a summit has been announced yet.
India Hit with Steep Tariffs Over Russian Oil Trade
In a dramatic action aimed at increasing economic pressure on Moscow, Trump signed an executive order to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, effective August 27. The decision was made after India continued to purchase Russian oil despite warnings from the U.S.
The new tariffs will raise duties on some Indian products to as much as 50%, placing them among the highest faced by any U.S. trading partner. India called the move “extremely unfortunate,” while the Kremlin described such penalties as “illegal.”
The action signals Trump’s increasing frustration with countries that are not aligning with his efforts to isolate Russia economically.
Threat of More Tariffs on China as Ceasefire Deadline Approaches
Trump also warned China that it could face similar penalties if it continues to buy sanctioned Russian oil. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently delivered this message to Chinese officials, citing new legislation passed by Congress.
Tensions between Washington and Beijing have already been high, with a 90-day tariff truce scheduled to end on August 12. Without an extension, tariffs on Chinese goods could soar to triple-digit levels, threatening an already fragile economic relationship.
Kremlin Airstrikes Continue Despite U.S. Warnings
Despite mounting international pressure, Moscow has intensified its air campaign in Ukraine, launching some of the most deadly strikes in recent months. Since peace talks resumed in May, at least 72 civilians have been killed in Kyiv alone.
The Kremlin is reportedly considering a limited moratorium on airstrikes, a suggestion floated by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. However, analysts believe this would fall far short of the full ceasefire demanded by Ukraine and its allies.
Ukraine continues to retaliate, targeting Russian refineries and oil depots with drones and advanced weaponry supplied by Western nations.
Zelensky Warns War Will Only End if Russia Runs Out of Funds
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who participated in a recent call with Trump and European leaders, has reiterated that Russia will only negotiate seriously if its financial resources are depleted. He welcomed the latest $200 million U.S. military aid package, which includes weapons and support for drone production.
Ukraine’s drone strikes have significantly damaged Russia’s energy infrastructure, while Russian air raids continue to terrorize Ukrainian cities. A recent attack on a holiday camp in Zaporizhzhia killed two and injured 12, an incident Zelensky called “pure cruelty.”
Putin Not Expected to Yield to Trump’s Sanctions Threat
Sources close to the Kremlin told Reuters that Putin is unlikely to be swayed by Trump’s threats, as he believes his military objectives in Ukraine are more important than the impact of additional sanctions. Despite three rounds of failed peace talks in Istanbul, Russia has continued to escalate its attacks.
The Kremlin has consistently rejected Zelensky’s requests for a one-on-one meeting with Putin. Meanwhile, Western nations remain unified in their demand for a full withdrawal of Russian forces and the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty.
What’s Next: Muted Hopes for Peace, Mounting Pressure
With Trump’s ceasefire deadline looming and no immediate breakthrough in sight, expectations for a resolution by Friday remain low. Nevertheless, the possibility of a summit between Trump, Putin, and Zelensky is being closely watched as a potential diplomatic turning point.
If no ceasefire is reached, Trump has pledged to expand sanctions and increase trade pressure—signaling a tougher U.S. stance moving forward.
