The report published by Bloomberg News on Tuesday revealed that Steve Witkoff, a close associate and special envoy for peace missions of Donald Trump, advised Yuri Ushakov, an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, on collaborating to create a ceasefire plan for Ukraine. The leak of a U.S.-backed plan proposed limitations on Ukraine’s military size and ruled out future NATO membership, while granting Russia more territory post its invasion in February 2022.
Amidst criticism and confusion surrounding the peace plan framework, House Republican Don Bacon urged for Witkoff’s removal from the negotiation team following the Bloomberg report. Bacon emphasized concerns over Witkoff’s alleged favoritism towards Russia, questioning his ability to lead unbiased negotiations.
President Trump defended Witkoff’s actions, labeling them as standard negotiation practices during a telephone call with the Russians. Witkoff, along with Jared Kushner, was involved in brokering the Gaza war ceasefire deal. The Kremlin confirmed Witkoff’s upcoming visit to Moscow for discussions regarding the peace plan with Russian leaders.
Despite Trump’s previous criticisms of Putin’s actions in Ukraine, concerns have arisen regarding the administration’s alignment with the Kremlin. Witkoff, a significant donor to Trump and the Republican Party, has been credited for his role in facilitating the Israel-Hamas ceasefire but has faced severe criticism for his handling of the Russia-Ukraine diplomatic efforts.
The leaked transcript has prompted a reassessment of the peace plan by Ukraine and its allies, with hopes of Russia being receptive to proposed amendments. Amidst these developments, global leaders, including Canada, participated in virtual discussions led by the European coalition of nations supporting Ukraine’s efforts for peace.