Trump’s Envoy Steve Witkoff Arrives in Moscow Ahead of Sanctions Deadline

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff landed in Moscow on Wednesday in a critical diplomatic push aimed at averting new U.S. sanctions on Russia, scheduled to take effect this Friday. The visit marks a last-ditch effort by the Trump administration to persuade the Kremlin to accept a ceasefire in Ukraine.

Witkoff, a real estate mogul-turned-envoy, was greeted at Vnukovo Airport by Kirill Dmitriev, a key ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin and head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund. The two were later seen walking together near the Kremlin, though there was no official confirmation of any direct meeting between Witkoff and Putin.

This surprise visit is Witkoff’s fifth to Moscow since January, underscoring his central role in President Donald Trump’s informal diplomatic strategy. Trump has warned that if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire, new sanctions will be imposed, including steep tariffs targeting countries that continue purchasing Russian oil, such as India and China.

Despite the urgency, analysts remain skeptical about any significant breakthrough. Experts suggest Moscow is unlikely to alter its course, given its current military advantage in Ukraine and belief that the West’s economic pressure can be weathered. Political analyst Gerhard Mangott noted that Russia is expected to stand firm on its pre-conditions for any ceasefire deal.

The visit comes amid growing international concern over escalating conflict in Ukraine and mounting civilian casualties. If diplomacy fails, the Trump administration is expected to enact sweeping sanctions by Friday, including secondary measures that could disrupt global trade and further isolate Russia economically.

With the clock ticking, Witkoff’s Moscow trip may determine the next chapter of U.S.-Russia relations and the broader geopolitical fallout surrounding the Ukraine war.