Zelensky criticizes US envoy for echoing Kremlin's narrative
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, criticised Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy, for frequently citing the "Kremlin narratives," which he believes weakens the pressure on Russia.
What do you need to know?
- President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concern in an interview with European media over the actions of Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy for the Middle East, who he claims often cites the "Kremlin narratives."
- Zelensky emphasised that such actions weaken the pressure of the United States on Russia and do not bring us closer to peace.
- Witkoff, despite his role in the Middle East, is also involved in negotiations concerning the war in Ukraine, which raises controversies.
Zelensky accuses Trump’s envoy
President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, in 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, according to him, weakens the United States' pressure on Russia. "I do not think this will bring us closer to peace," he stated, emphasising that such statements hinder the Ukrainian side.
Ceasefire in the Black Sea
Zelensky also addressed the situation in the Black Sea, emphasising that the ceasefire in these waters is mainly beneficial for the Russians, because, according to him, Ukrainians control the situation in these waters. In the context of U.S.-Russian and U.S.-Ukrainian talks in Saudi Arabia, Zelensky expressed his concerns about Witkoff's influence on these negotiations.
He emphasized that his country’s self-defence also protects Europe as a whole. Addressing concerns about European nations' hesitance to deploy troops to Ukraine due to pressure from Moscow, he noted that Russia consistently challenges any European security decisions. He stressed the need for Europe to prioritize the safety of its citizens rather than being concerned about Russia's reactions.
The President of Ukraine said that Vladimir Putin fears the unity of Europe and the United States. He noted that Putin is attempting to undermine this unity and, to some extent, has managed to do so, though fortunately not entirely.
The interview with Volodymyr Zelensky was organised by the European Broadcasting Union and took place in Paris. Journalists from French public television, BBC News, German television ARD, and Estonian public broadcaster ERR participated.
