U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, will travel to Russia next week to continue peace efforts aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters, Trump said Witkoff is expected to visit Moscow on Wednesday or Thursday to push for a ceasefire agreement.
Witkoff, a close associate of Trump and a well-known real estate figure, has already held several meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump said the main goal of this mission is to stop the violence and “get a deal where people stop getting killed.”
Trump also warned that if peace talks do not make progress, the U.S. could place heavy tariffs on Russia. This warning comes at a time when Russian drone attacks on Ukraine have reached record numbers, with over 6,000 strikes reported last month.
Adding to the tension, Trump revealed that two U.S. nuclear submarines have been deployed in the region. While the president did not share specific details, this move is seen as a strong signal to Russia amid growing hostilities.
Ukraine, on the other hand, continues to seek military support. It is expecting delivery of the U.S.-made Patriot missile defense system. Trump confirmed the system will be paid for by European allies, not American taxpayers.
Despite the ongoing fighting, diplomatic efforts are still active. Ukraine and Russia recently held talks in Istanbul, where they agreed to exchange 1,200 prisoners. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the deal, while Russia has yet to respond.
Steve Witkoff’s increasing role in U.S. foreign policy is drawing attention. Known more for his business background than diplomacy, Witkoff has become a central figure in efforts to end the war. His upcoming trip will be closely followed, especially as the situation on the ground becomes more dangerous.
With violence rising and the pressure for peace growing, the next round of talks could play a key role in shaping the future of the conflict.
