Trump Sets New Sanctions Deadline for Russia

President Donald Trump has set an August 8 deadline for a ceasefire in Ukraine, threatening sweeping new sanctions on Russia and its trading partners, including China and India, if hostilities persist. The new ultimatum comes after Trump condemned deadly Russian strikes on Ukrainian civilians. Senator Richard Blumenthal is urging Congress to pass legislation imposing even harsher tariffs, up to 500%, as bipartisan support for stronger measures grows. Peace talks in Istanbul have stalled, yielding little beyond prisoner exchanges, while both Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of blocking progress. China has publicly pushed back against U.S. sanctions, asserting its right to continue trade with Russia and denying involvement in the conflict. As skepticism mounts among Kyiv and European allies regarding Putin's intentions, the situation remains volatile ahead of the U.S. deadline.