Witkoff to travel to Russia ahead of U.S. sanctions, Trump says
Why it matters: Trump's deadline to President Vladimir Putin will expire in eight days. If the Russian president doesn't agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine by then, the U.S. will impose new sanctions on Russia for the first time since Trump assumed office.
While Trump voiced skepticism about the effectiveness of the upcoming sanctions on Russia, he made clear he is going to do it.
Trump has resisted for six months to impose the sanctions that will potentially deal a heavy penalty to buyers of Russian oil, notably China and India, in the process.
What he's saying:"It is disgusting what they are doing. Very sad. It should be stopped. It's a disgrace," Trump said when asked about the Russian bombing of Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities.
"We are going to put sanctions. I am not sure it bothers him or if it has any effect, but we are going to do it," he added.
Catch up quick: Two weeks ago, Trump said he is giving Putin a 50-day deadline to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine.
Trump's deadline came after he became convinced the Russian president wasn't negotiating in good faith.
Earlier this week, Trump shortened the deadline he gave Putin and said that considering Putin's position, there is no reason to wait 50 days.
What we're watching: Witkoff's trip to Russia and a possible meeting with Putin hasn't been fully finalized, a source with knowledge says. If Witkoff goes, it will be his first trip to Russia in three months.
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