US envoy reassures on Putin's intentions amid peace talks
Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy to the Middle East, expressed confidence in Vladimir Putin, asserting that he 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 mentioned on the front pages of Russian newspapers.
What do you need to know?
- US-Russian talks: Further negotiations are planned in Riyadh concerning the ceasefire in Russia's war against Ukraine.
- Steve Witkoff's statement: The US 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.
What are the plans for talks in Riyadh?
Further talks between the US 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 US 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, expressed his opinion on Vladimir Putin’s motives. "I simply have said that I just don't see that he wants to take all of Europe" – stated Witkoff, emphasizing that the situation is different from during World War II when NATO did not exist.
What were the reactions of the Russian media?
All Russian newspapers on their front pages feature information about the peace talks in Riyadh. They are generally referred to as "Trump’s Ukrainian plans."
These articles are an opportunity for comments on the alleged 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," report the Russian media.
Words spoken by Witkoff in a conversation with Tucker Carlson from Fox News are also quoted. Asked if he believes that the Russians want to march across Europe, he replied, "one hundred percent no."
