US President Donald Trump announced that his foreign envoy, Steve Witkoff, will travel to Russia in the coming days. This decision comes as Trump plans new sanctions against Moscow, which he accused of continuing a “disgusting” assault on Ukraine.

Trump Criticizes Russia’s War on Ukraine

While speaking to reporters on Thursday afternoon, Trump strongly condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine. “I think it’s disgusting what they’re doing. I think it’s disgusting,” he said, referring to the ongoing missile attacks on Ukraine.

Although Trump confirmed fresh sanctions are on the way, he appeared unsure about their impact on Russian President Vladimir Putin. “We’re gonna put sanctions. I don’t know that sanctions bother him [Putin],” he said during the press briefing at the White House.

He added, “You know, they know about sanctions. I know better than anybody about sanctions and tariffs and everything else. I don’t know if that has any effect, but we’re going to do it.”

Witkoff to Visit Russia After Israel Trip

Trump revealed that Steve Witkoff, currently in the Middle East discussing Israel’s war in Gaza, will head to Russia next. “He’s going to Russia, believe it or not,” Trump said, confirming Witkoff’s next destination.

Witkoff’s last reported visit to Russia was in April this year, when he met Putin at the Kremlin. However, that meeting didn’t lead to any progress in ending the war in Ukraine. Since then, Trump’s frustration with the lack of peace has only grown. His latest remarks reflect growing impatience with Russia’s military actions.

Sanctions Against India and Warnings to China

The US has already imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods, citing India’s ongoing purchase of Russian oil as the reason. At the same time, the Trump administration has also warned China about similar actions. In response, Beijing criticized the US, saying that Washington also continues to trade with Russia.