In recent days, a wave of decisions and statements has directly impacted Russia’s war against Ukraine. While the Kremlin remains defiant, the White House—through a new team of special envoys, punitive tariffs, and threats of secondary sanctions—is steadily ramping up economic and military pressure.
Steve Witkoff’s Moscow Mission: Three Hours of Talks and Not a Single Step Toward Peace
On August 4, billionaire developer and U.S. presidential special envoy Steve Witkoff held over three hours of closed-door talks with Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin. The Russian side described the meeting as “constructive,” yet made no concrete proposals for ending hostilities. Sources in Kyiv note that Witkoff delivered the same message as before: “Stop the killing.” However, Moscow’s position remained unchanged—insistence on control over occupied territories and Ukraine’s renunciation of NATO membership.
In Washington, the talks were assessed as showing “no progress.” That same day, the White House confirmed that if Russia fails to take real steps by August 8, a new package of sanctions will come into effect, including “painful” restrictions for Russia’s trading partners.
It is worth noting that the meeting took place against the backdrop of a bold military signal: after nuclear threats from Dmitry Medvedev, President Trump ordered two nuclear submarines to move into “appropriate zones” near Russian territory. As usual, the Pentagon declined to comment on the exact routes, but experts called the move an “unprecedented warning” to Moscow.
Keith Kellogg Heads to Kyiv: Third Visit in a Month and a 'Plan B' if Talks Collapse
Alongside diplomatic efforts on the “eastern front,” preparations are underway for a “western front.” On August 8—the final day of Donald Trump’s ten-day ultimatum to Russia—retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg will arrive in Kyiv. This marks his third visit in a month. During his previous visit on July 14, discussions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy included air defense, lend-lease mechanisms, and harsher sanctions against Russia. Ukrainian officials also noted the “strange” silence of Russian aviation during that trip.
This time, the focus is expected to be on the rapid deployment of additional Western weapons and outlining a “Plan B” in the event that Moscow ignores the ultimatum. The Ukrainian side views Kellogg’s visit as a “certificate of guarantees”—a demonstration that the U.S. is prepared to strengthen Ukraine’s defense regardless of the outcome of Witkoff’s mission.
25% on Top: Tariffs Target India and Signal to Other Russian Oil Buyers
On August 6, the U.S. President signed an executive order adding another 25% tariff on imports from India, bringing the total tariff rate to 50%. The White House directly linked this move to India’s purchases of Russian oil, which it said “finances the war against Ukraine.” The price hike will take effect on August 27; shipments made before this date will be exempt.
India reacted sharply, calling the move “selective and unjust,” and threatened to challenge it at the World Trade Organization (WTO). Analysts note that the tariffs primarily target India’s oil refining sector and textile exports, and serve as a clear warning to other major buyers of Russian energy—particularly China—that “mirror measures” may follow.
Submarines, the 'Shadow Fleet', and Secondary Sanctions: How the U.S. Is Tightening the Kremlin’s Screws
Following the order to redeploy submarines, the Pentagon stated it was “prepared to respond to any threats from Russia,” though it refrained from specifying the composition of the naval group. Diplomats emphasized that showcasing the underwater component is a rare but unmistakable signal of Washington’s readiness to respond asymmetrically.
Simultaneously, the U.S. Treasury is preparing a new sectoral sanctions package targeting Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers that help circumvent oil price caps. According to Newsweek, the list may include more than 100 vessels. The EU and Panama have already restricted registration of aging Russian tankers.
In addition, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that the pressure campaign would continue “until Russia stops profiting illegally from war.” The new focus includes Russia’s banking sector, high-tech imports, and intermediary firms operating in third countries.
Defense and Popularity: M777 Support Package and Zelenskyy’s 'Double' Advantage
The U.S. State Department has approved the potential sale of a support package to Ukraine worth $104–203 million for the maintenance and long-term servicing of M777 howitzers, as well as logistics for transportation. The primary contractor is BAE Systems, and work is expected to begin by late 2025. This will allow the Armed Forces of Ukraine to return damaged artillery to the front more quickly—equipment that has proven highly effective in counter-battery operations.
Amid growing military support, public opinion is also trending in Kyiv’s favor. According to a recent poll, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy enjoys a +18% net approval rating among Americans, while Donald Trump holds a –16% net rating. Zelenskyy ranks second among 14 global figures in terms of popularity, behind only Pope Francis. Experts attribute the gap to the “David vs. Goliath” narrative that resonates strongly with American audiences.
Operation KleptoCapture 2.0: Russian Oligarch’s $325M Superyacht 'Amadea' Up for Auction in San Diego
The U.S. government has listed the 348-foot Amadea for auction—a $325 million superyacht seized in 2022 from Russian oligarch Suleiman Kerimov. The auction will take place on September 10. Participation requires an $11.6 million deposit and proof of assets of at least $500 million. The vessel, equipped with six decks, a swimming pool, and a cinema, is docked in San Diego and, according to brokers, has remained “virtually untouched” since its seizure. The auction is being managed by the U.S. Marshals Service and National Maritime Services and is part of a broader initiative to turn kleptocratic assets into support for the rule of law. As part of “Operation KleptoCapture,” the sale represents a powerful symbol of accountability and U.S. resolve in targeting the financial foundations of the Russian elite.
Author: Diana Khudko