U.S.-Russia thaw: Putin seen as no threat to Europe
Steve Witkoff, the U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, expressed confidence in Vladimir Putin, claiming that the Russian leader does not intend to take over Europe. The Russian press is reciprocating this belief with enthusiastic articles. The interview he gave to Fox News is prominently featured on the front pages of Russian newspapers.
What you need to know
- U.S.-Russian talks: Further negotiations are planned in Riyadh concerning the ceasefire in Russia's war against Ukraine.
- Steve Witkoff's statement: The U.S. special envoy stated that he does not see Putin wanting to take over all of Europe.
- The Kremlin is delighted. Russian newspapers are reprinting Witkoff's interview given to Fox News. "US & Russian officials are now speaking the same language…for the first time in years the White House & the Kremlin are openly demonstrating their mutual attraction," report the Russian media.
Plans for talks in Riyadh
Further talks between the U.S. and Russia concerning a ceasefire in Ukraine are scheduled to take place in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. This meeting is a continuation of earlier discussions that took place between U.S. and Ukrainian delegations. "I take him at his word," said Steve Witkoff on Fox News, referring to Vladimir Putin's intentions.
What did Steve Witkoff say about Putin?
Steve Witkoff, acting as the United States special envoy to the Middle East, shared his views on Vladimir Putin’s motives. "I simply have said that I just don't see that he wants to take all of Europe," Witkoff stated, emphasizing that the current situation is different from World War II when NATO was not in place.
How did the Russian media react?
All Russian newspapers have featured information about the peace talks in Riyadh on their front pages. These talks are generally referred to as "Trump’s Ukrainian plans."
The articles provide an opportunity for comments on the supposed community of interests and common language. "US & Russian officials are now speaking the same language…for the first time in years the White House & the Kremlin are openly demonstrating their mutual attraction."
Witkoff's conversation with Tucker Carlson from Fox News is also quoted, emphasizing his response to whether he believes the Russians want to march across Europe: "One hundred percent no," he replied confidently.
