President Trump Addresses Special Envoy Witkoff's Reported Discussions with Russian Official
Washington D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump has commented on special envoy Steve Witkoff following a leaked audio recording that reportedly captures Witkoff advising a Russian official. On Wednesday, President Trump stated that Witkoff was engaged in "what a dealmaker does" to promote a peace plan to both Russia and Ukraine. He indicated he had not heard the audio himself.
Details of the Leaked Audio
- The recording, initially reported as a transcript by Bloomberg, dates to October 14.
- It purportedly documents a conversation between Witkoff and Yuri Ushakov, foreign policy adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
- According to the transcript, Witkoff advised Ushakov on how to engage President Trump, suggesting Ushakov congratulate the President on his achievements and acknowledge him as "a man of peace."
- Witkoff reportedly conveyed his belief that the Russian Federation "has always wanted a peace deal," noting the challenges in achieving compromise between the two nations.
- The conversation also reportedly included Witkoff mentioning an upcoming visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the White House and suggesting a prior discussion between President Trump and President Putin.
- Witkoff reportedly referenced the possibility of a "20-point peace proposal," drawing a comparison to efforts in Gaza. BBC News has not independently verified the reported call.
Context of Peace Negotiations
- The recording emerged days after the U.S. presented a 28-point draft peace plan concerning the conflict in Ukraine.
- Ukrainian and European leaders criticized the initial draft, stating it largely favored Russian positions, including proposals for the handover of Ukrainian-controlled territory in eastern Ukraine.
- The plan has since undergone revisions to better align with Ukraine's interests and the views of European allies.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated his readiness to meet with President Trump to discuss outstanding "sensitive points."
Special Envoy Witkoff's Engagements
- Steve Witkoff has visited Moscow multiple times this year and is scheduled for another meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin next week.
- He has not conducted talks in Kyiv in his capacity as special envoy.
- Other U.S. officials, including U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, have visited Kyiv. President Trump stated he would hold further discussions with Ukrainian representatives.