Russian Envoy Dmitriev Holds Official US Talks Amid Trump Sanctions on Energy Firms

President Donald Trump recently imposed sanctions on Russia's two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, in response to Russia's military actions in Ukraine and called for an immediate ceasefire. Following these sanctions, Kirill Dmitriev, Russia's economic envoy and head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, arrived in the United States for official discussions and is expected to meet with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff in Miami. Dmitriev emphasized that the visit was planned prior and highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue despite tensions. The sanctions have caused disruptions in global energy markets, with major buyers like China and India reducing Russian crude purchases, though Putin dismissed the sanctions' impact on Russia's economy. The visit marks a rare direct contact between U.S. and Russian officials amid heightened friction, with Trump shifting from a previously more conciliatory approach to a firm stance against Moscow's aggression in Ukraine. The talks aim to explore the future of U.S.-Russia relations amidst a complex geopolitical backdrop.