Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has strongly criticized US President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, accusing him of spreading “Kremlin narratives” and undermining Ukraine’s position in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Ukrainian leader made these remarks during an interview with European broadcasters on March 26, particularly targeting Witkoff’s statements regarding the status of Ukrainian territories that have fallen under Russian control.

The diplomatic clash highlights a growing rift between Zelensky and elements of the Trump administration, particularly over how to approach the war in Ukraine. Witkoff, a key figure in opening negotiations related to the war, has been accused by Zelensky of aligning with Russian President Vladimir Putin and weakening US pressure on Moscow.

Zelensky did not hold back in his criticism of Witkoff, stating – “I believe that Witkoff really does quote Kremlin narratives very often. I believe that this will not bring us closer to peace. And I believe that, unfortunately, this will weaken the American pressure on Russia. We can only fix this information backdrop through our actions. We’re trying to do that.”

The Ukrainian president further accused Witkoff of being an obstacle to Ukraine’s efforts to resist Russian aggression, adding – “Witkoff’s statements are very much a hindrance to us because we are fighting Putin and we really do not want him to have many helpers.”

Zelensky’s frustration stems from a recent interview Witkoff gave to American journalist Tucker Carlson. During the interview, Witkoff acknowledged that territories under Russian control are overwhelmingly Russian-speaking and have held referendums indicating a preference to be governed by Moscow.

Witkoff’s remarks were blunt and focused on the political reality of the war. He described the territorial issue as “an elephant in the room” that no one wanted to address.

“They’re Russian-speaking. There have been referendums where the overwhelming majority of the people have indicated that they want to be under Russian rule. The Russians are de facto in control of these territories. The question is: Will the world acknowledge that those are Russian territories? Can Zelensky survive politically if he acknowledges this? This is the central issue in the conflict.”

Such comments enraged Kyiv, with Aleksandr Merezhko, head of Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Committee, describing Witkoff’s statements as “disgraceful” and “shocking.” Merezhko even called for Washington to remove Witkoff from his role, labeling him “completely unprofessional.”

Witkoff’s position, however, reflects a growing segment of opinion within the US and Europe that questions the feasibility of Ukraine regaining all of its lost territory. His statement also suggests that elements of the Trump administration may be looking at a pragmatic solution rather than Ukraine’s insistence on total victory over Russia.

While Witkoff’s remarks caused uproar in Kyiv, they were welcomed in Moscow. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov praised the special envoy for his “clear understanding” of the situation. Lavrov stated:

“I understand Steve Witkoff. He is a clever and energetic person who thinks that everyone should be aware of the things he regards as obvious. Judging by the statements he made during his conversation with Tucker Carlson, the essence of this conflict is clear to him.”

This endorsement from Moscow only further inflamed tensions between Kyiv and Washington, with Ukraine seeing it as confirmation that Witkoff is parroting Russian talking points.

Zelensky’s public rebuke of Witkoff reveals the growing unease in Kyiv over shifts in US policy. The Biden administration has been a staunch backer of Ukraine, supplying billions in military aid and diplomatic support. However, a potential Trump administration in 2025 could dramatically alter that trajectory.

Trump has repeatedly questioned the vast amounts of aid given to Ukraine and has hinted at a desire to push for a negotiated settlement, possibly one that recognizes Russia’s hold over some Ukrainian territories. Witkoff’s remarks align with this possible policy shift, and his role as a special envoy suggests that some within Trump’s camp may be laying the groundwork for a different approach to the war.

Zelensky, who has heavily relied on US military and financial backing, faces a potential diplomatic crisis if Trump returns to power. His sharp words against Witkoff indicate concern that Trump’s team is already softening its stance on Russia.

It’s also significant that Witkoff’s statements were made in an interview with Tucker Carlson, a prominent conservative journalist who has often been critical of the Biden administration’s Ukraine policy. Carlson’s interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin in February 2024 was viewed by millions and played a major role in reshaping US conservative attitudes toward the war. His interview with Witkoff further cemented the notion that some within the Trump circle see Ukraine’s total victory as an unrealistic goal.

The biggest risk for Zelensky is that Witkoff’s words may reflect an emerging consensus in US policy circles that Ukraine may have to make territorial concessions.

If Trump wins the 2024 election, Ukraine may find itself under pressure to negotiate with Moscow on terms it has so far refused to consider. Witkoff’s emphasis on the political survival of Zelensky if he acknowledges Russian territorial control suggests that Ukraine’s Western backers may start to push Kyiv toward a compromise.

Furthermore, the rift highlights Ukraine’s delicate position. The country has relied heavily on US aid and diplomacy, and if Washington begins to shift its approach, Kyiv could find itself in an increasingly difficult position, especially if European allies follow suit.

Zelensky’s condemnation of Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff reflects growing anxiety in Kyiv over possible shifts in US policy. Witkoff’s statements, which acknowledge Russia’s control over Ukrainian territories, signal a potential break from the Biden administration’s hardline stance and suggest that a future Trump administration may take a more pragmatic approach to negotiations.

With Russian officials praising Witkoff and Ukrainian officials demanding his removal, the controversy highlights the stark divide between how different actors perceive the war. As the 2024 US presidential election approaches, Ukraine’s leadership faces an increasingly uncertain future, with the possibility of waning Western support and a push toward a negotiated settlement that it has long resisted.

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Source: Weekly Blitz :: Writings