Tensions Escalate as Putin Ignores Ultimatum

President Donald Trump’s 10-day ultimatum for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine expired on August 8, 2025, with no resolution, intensifying global concerns. Initially set at 50 days, the deadline threatened severe sanctions, including penalties on nations buying Russian oil. A U.S. envoy’s Moscow visit on August 6 failed to sway Putin, who rejected direct talks with Ukraine’s Zelenskyy. The war, now in its fourth year, has killed over 500,000 Russians and displaced millions. Ukrainian forces remain defiant, with frontline reports indicating no letup in Russian assaults. Trump expressed disappointment, saying it’s “up to [Putin],” hinting at flexibility. China welcomed U.S.-Russia talks, while European allies fear a forced peace could weaken Ukraine. No sanctions have been announced, raising doubts about enforcement. Social media buzzes with criticism of Trump’s perceived retreat, though supporters argue he’s avoiding escalation. The standoff risks straining NATO and spiking energy prices, leaving the White House’s next move unclear.

“It’s going to be up to him. Very disappointed.”
—President Donald Trump

“We will fight on; our land is not negotiable.”
—Ukrainian military spokesperson

“Russia’s security must come first in any talks.”
—Kremlin aide

Public Reaction

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Search X for a tweet matching: “BRAKING🇺🇦vs🇷🇺: Trump TACOed again to Putin. REPORTER: Does your deadline still stand? TRUMP: It’s going to be up to him. Very disappointed.” (e.g., use keywords “Trump Putin ceasefire August 2025”). Copy the tweet URL by clicking the timestamp and selecting “Copy link to post.” Replace the placeholder URL.

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Reference Section

X Post (ID 0, AP): Mentions global reactions, indirectly relevant. Link: https://t.co/oiP9nrk6aZ

Web Source (ID 18, CNN): Details Trump’s Ukraine deadline expiration and summit plans. Link: https://edition.cnn.com

Web Source (ID 12, The New York Times): Covers the 10-day deadline and Trump’s disappointment. Link: https://www.nytimes.com

Web Source (ID 6, U.S. Department of State): Discusses U.S. envoy efforts in Moscow. Link: https://www.state.gov