Witkoff to travel to Russia ahead of U.S. sanctions, Trump says

President Trump said on Thursday that White House envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to travel to Russia in the coming days ahead of the sanctions the U.S. plans to impose on Moscow over the war in Ukraine. Why it matters: Trump's deadline to Russian President Vladimir Putin will expire in eight days. If Putin 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 will impose them. For six months, Trump has resisted imposing sanctions that could potentially deal a heavy penalty to buyers of Russian oil — particularly China and India.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. More from Axios:Scoop: Trump envoy Witkoff travels to Russia to meet PutinEU trade deal with Trump seen as helping Europe ditch Russian fuels

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