In a significant move toward a possible Ukraine peace deal, former US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Friday. The visit signals renewed diplomatic momentum, with both sides hinting at progress in negotiations to end the war.
Witkoff Takes Center Stage
Steve Witkoff, a real estate executive-turned-envoy, has emerged as a central figure in Trump’s foreign policy efforts. This meeting marked his fourth direct engagement with Putin, reflecting his growing role as an unofficial mediator between Washington and the Kremlin.
Kremlin footage showed Witkoff and Putin seated across a white oval table. Putin was joined by top aides, including foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov and Kirill Dmitriev, Russia’s investment envoy who has been instrumental in backchannel discussions with the Trump team.
Read: IMF Chief Urges Swift U.S. Trade Deals to Avert Global Economic Slowdown
Tense Backdrop, Direct Messaging
The meeting came just one day after a deadly Russian missile and drone strike on Kyiv, which killed at least 12 people. In response, Trump posted a stark message on social media: “Vladimir, STOP!” Despite the strong language, Trump maintained that talks were progressing.
Walking the Diplomatic Line
Witkoff’s presence in Moscow highlights Trump’s personalized and direct diplomatic style, especially as he campaigns for re-election. Russian media outlets, including Izvestia, shared images of Witkoff walking in central Moscow with Dmitriev, suggesting a candid and open atmosphere for talks.
An Unofficial but Impactful Role
Witkoff’s frequent appearances in Moscow underscore how unofficial actors are shaping global diplomacy. As tensions persist in Ukraine, his visits represent Trump’s belief in personal negotiations over institutional channels.
Follow us on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook,Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates