US Envoy Engages Putin in Critical Peace Talks Amid Sanction Threats

In a pivotal diplomatic engagement, United States special envoy Steve Witkoff conducted pivotal discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. These 'useful and constructive' talks featured prominently as a deadline approaches for Russia to secure a peace deal with Ukraine or face severe economic sanctions, as reported by Al Jazeera.

According to Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov, discussions centered on the Ukraine conflict, focusing on fostering strategic cooperation between Moscow and Washington. While specifics await Witkoff's report to President Donald Trump, Russian Presidential special representative Kirill Dmitriev expressed optimism on social media, asserting, 'Dialogue will prevail.'

Amid escalating tensions, President Trump reiterated threats of imposing sanctions should Russia fail to consent to a ceasefire. The specifics of potential punitive measures remain undisclosed, yet past threats have hinted at 'secondary tariffs' against Russia's trading allies, including India and China. Notably, Trump has already enacted increased tariffs on Indian goods over Russia-related issues.

Witkoff, a newcomer to diplomacy, continues efforts to navigate longstanding hostility as prior peace talks have fallen flat. Despite calls for a ceasefire, Putin maintains steadfast demands for significant territorial concessions from Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies reject.

(With inputs from agencies.)