Zelensky challenges U.S. envoy's 'Kremlin narratives' stance
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, criticized Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy, for frequently citing the "Kremlin narratives," which he believes lessens the pressure on Russia.
What do you need to know?
- President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine expressed concern in an interview with European media about the actions of Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy for the Middle East, who he claims often refers to the "Kremlin narratives."
- Zelensky emphasized that such actions reduce the effectiveness of U.S. pressure on Russia and do not help bring us closer to peace.
- Witkoff, despite his role in the Middle East, is also involved in negotiations related to the war in Ukraine, which is raising controversy.
Zelensky accuses Trump’s envoy
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, in a conversation with European media, expressed his concern over the actions of Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy for the Middle East.
Zelensky believes that Witkoff often cites the "Kremlin narratives," which compromise the United States' pressure on Russia. "I do not think this will bring us closer to peace," stated Zelensky, emphasizing that such statements hinder the Ukrainian side.
Ceasefire in the Black Sea
Zelensky also addressed the situation in the Black Sea, emphasizing that the ceasefire there mainly benefits the Russians, underlining that Ukrainian forces maintain control over the area. Regarding the U.S.-Russian and U.S.-Ukrainian discussions taking place in Saudi Arabia, he voiced concerns about Witkoff's potential influence on the negotiations.
He argued that by defending itself, his country also protects Europe. When asked about concerns from European nations vulnerable to Moscow's pressure and reluctant to send troops to Ukraine, he stressed that Russia challenges any European decisions related to security. In his view, Europe should focus on strengthening the safety of its citizens rather than being preoccupied with how the Kremlin might respond.
The Ukrainian President also highlighted that Vladimir Putin fears the united front between Europe and the United States. He noted that the Kremlin leader is actively working to undermine this unity and, to some extent, has managed to make progress, though, fortunately, not entirely.
The interview with Volodymyr Zelensky was organized by the European Broadcasting Union and took place in Paris. Journalists from French public television, BBC News, German broadcaster ARD, and Estonian public broadcaster ERR participated.
