Trump Envoy Steve Witkoff Reveals ‘Friendship’ with Putin | US News
The individual who has come to be regarded as Donald Trump’s chief geopolitical negotiator has stated that he has formed a “friendship” with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Steve Witkoff was appointed as Mr. Trump’s Middle East envoy shortly after the US election, but he has since taken part in discussions with Russia focused on concluding the war in Ukraine.
Mr. Witkoff shared these insights regarding his rapport with Mr. Putin at an investment forum in Miami, organized by Saudi Arabia, where he recounted his extraordinary last-minute journey to Moscow last week to secure the release of US citizen Marc Fogel.
“I spent considerable time with Putin. Engaging in conversation and building a friendship and relationship with him…” Mr. Witkoff remarked.
This covert visit to bring the Pennsylvania teacher back is emerging as a pivotal moment in the rapidly changing relations between the Trump administration and the Kremlin.
The specifics of the discussions and the release have not been made public.
Steve Witkoff described his Moscow visit as ‘a great trip’
Stay updated: Live updates on the Ukraine war
Reflecting on the success of the negotiations, Mr. Witkoff noted: “First, I had President Trump’s backing, which is a significant asset. Secondly, we have a strong partnership with the Saudis… They assured us that this was legitimate… and so it became worthy of the trip. Thus, we proceeded, and it was indeed a successful journey. I spent ample time with President Putin, discussing and nurturing a friendship that ultimately led to Mark boarding the plane…”
The involvement of the Saudi government highlights Riyadh’s growing geopolitical influence.
Following Mr. Witkoff’s Moscow trip, discussions in Riyadh between the US and Russia were finalized.
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In an interview with Sky News during the investment conference, addressing President Trump’s remarks describing President Zelenskyy as a “dictator,” Mr. Witkoff stated: “I find myself agreeing with President Trump; he possesses a discerning insight into what needs to be done to pave the way for enduring peace between Russia and Ukraine.
“I follow his guidance, and I have faith in his perspective.”
He concluded: “The president has an exceptional talent for uniting people, and this is just the beginning.”
