US President Donald Trump has denied that his envoy to the Ukraine peace talks, Steve Witkoff, has been “too pro-Russian” amid a controversy surrounding a leaked phone call transcript. The alleged conversation between Witkoff and a Russian official, obtained by Bloomberg, has sparked debate about the envoy’s tactics. Trump, however, has defended Witkoff’s approach, calling it a standard practice for dealmakers in negotiations. He emphasized the need for both Ukraine and Russia to make concessions, asserting that “a dealmaker does” have to “sell” terms to both sides.
On Tuesday, Trump addressed the issue directly, denying that Witkoff was being “too pro-Russian” during diplomatic talks. He described the envoy’s methods as a routine part of diplomacy, stressing that every party involved must “give and take” to reach a resolution. This stance has been met with mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a pragmatic approach while others question the implications of engaging in such negotiations. Trump also suggested that Ukraine could benefit from a deal, as it would allow Russia to “make a deal” with the West, reducing long-term hostilities.
Other developments include the recent publication of another alleged phone call transcript between Witkoff and Russian official Kirill Dmitriev. Dmitriev has dismissed the authenticity of the transcript, highlighting the ongoing skepticism about the credibility of such leaks. Russian authorities have previously accused Western media of spreading disinformation aimed at undermining Trump’s mediation efforts. Despite these challenges, Trump has remained committed to his efforts, stating that his original 28-point peace plan has been “fine-tuned” with input from both sides. The president has directed Witkoff to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, showing his intent to continue diplomatic engagement. Meanwhile, US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is expected to maintain contact with Ukrainian officials to coordinate military and diplomatic strategy.
As the conflict continues to evolve, the negotiations remain a critical aspect of the situation. Trump’s role as a mediator has drawn both support and criticism, depending on one’s perspective of the diplomatic process. The controversy surrounding Witkoff’s tactics underscores the complexities of international diplomacy, particularly in a conflict where both sides have strong national interests. The outcomes of these negotiations could significantly impact the future of the region, potentially leading to a more stable peace or further escalation of hostilities.