UK Minister Rejects 'Humanitarian' Label for Putin

A British Cabinet minister has rejected comments made by a U.S. special envoy describing Russian President Vladimir Putin as a "humanitarian." Scotland Secretary Douglas Alexander stated on LBC radio that the UK does not recognize this description, citing Russia's "illegal invasion of Ukraine" and alleged "attempted assassinations on UK soil."

These remarks came as Kyiv experienced renewed airstrikes. The controversial characterization of Putin was reportedly made by Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff during a meeting with the Russian president. During this meeting, Moscow agreed to release an American citizen jailed for fighting for Ukraine and, in principle, to resume peace talks with Ukraine and the U.S.

Witkoff's description was made in the context of the release of Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old former teacher imprisoned in 2022. Donald Trump has suggested that progress toward ending the war is being made, stating the sides are "maybe now the closest we've been."

However, no significant shift in Russia's demands has been publicly observed, and missile strikes on Kyiv have continued. Trump has also publicly criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for actions against Russian oil infrastructure, which has contributed to rising diesel prices in the U.S. due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. The U.S. president has reportedly halted planned sanctions and reached an agreement with Putin to supply diesel, a move that has raised concerns among Western allies.

Separately, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke with Finland's President Alexander Stubb. Their discussion, following a meeting between Zelensky and Witkoff in Oslo, Norway, emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum to end Russia's attacks on Ukraine. Both leaders agreed that any peace settlement must include security guarantees for Ukraine and prevent the return of war to the European continent.