Trump Envoy Calls Putin 'Humanitarian' Amid Ukraine Peace Talks
Steve Witkoff's remarks came as efforts continue to broker an end to the protracted conflict.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff described Russian President Vladimir Putin as a "humanitarian" during a meeting in St. Petersburg, a day after Russian forces launched a drone strike that killed civilians in Ukraine. Witkoff's comments were made as the Trump administration seeks to re-engage Russia in peace talks to end the ongoing war.
"You talk so much about my president, President Trump, being a humanitarian. You are a humanitarian also, sir, and I salute that, I commend you, and I thank you again," Witkoff said in a video clip shared on social media. The meeting occurred as the United States attempts to facilitate discussions to end the conflict, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
The high praise for Putin followed the release of Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old American teacher who had been imprisoned in Russia for over four years on charges of serving as a mercenary for Ukraine. Witkoff announced Hubbard's release and stated he would accompany him home.
However, Witkoff's remarks contrasted with the ongoing violence in Ukraine. Just prior to the meeting, a Russian drone strike in Kharkiv killed a teacher and her infant daughter, along with four other civilians. According to the United Nations, Russian bombardments in September alone resulted in the deaths of 328 civilians, targeting major Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure.
Witkoff's visit to St. Petersburg was intended to discuss trade and potential avenues for ending the war. Earlier, on Tuesday, Witkoff met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Oslo. Zelenskyy has indicated openness to halting front lines as part of a ceasefire, as both sides explore diplomatic resolutions.
Reports suggest Witkoff may propose trilateral talks involving Ukrainian leadership, Russian officials, and President Trump.