President Donald Trump has hinted he may shorten the 50-day ceasefire deadline he gave Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite continued Russian offensives in Ukraine and skepticism from analysts about the seriousness of Trump’s threats.

Critics argue the deadline gives Putin time to intensify his attacks and capture more territory, especially in eastern Ukraine, before facing any real consequences. While Trump has warned of harsh tariffs on nations trading with Russia, experts doubt his resolve, citing past unfulfilled threats and a lack of tangible pressure on the Kremlin.

Vice Adm. Robert Murrett (Ret.), professor of practice of public administration and international affairs, says that since Trump's announcement, there is scant evidence that Putin and the Kremlin had modified their maximalist demands—for Ukrainian territory, disarmament and an absence of security guarantees.

But neither Russia nor the financial markets seemed to be overly concerned about the 50-day timeline for additional U.S. sanctions, says Murrett.

Read more in the Newsweek article, “Russia Racing to Make Major Ukraine Gains Before Trump's 50-Day Deadline.”