Witkoff Guided Russia on Presenting Ukraine Proposal to Trump
In October 2023, U.S. presidential envoy Steve Witkoff engaged in a significant conversation with Yuri Ushakov, a key aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The phone call, lasting over five minutes, focused on how Russia might collaborate with the U.S. to establish a peace proposal for Ukraine, drawing on the framework of the recent Gaza peace deal.
Witkoff’s Proposed Collaboration
During the October 14 call, Witkoff suggested that Vladimir Putin should approach Donald Trump regarding a potential peace plan for Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of timing, proposing a Trump-Putin conversation before Ukrainian President Volodyr Zelenskiy’s scheduled visit to the White House on October 17. Witkoff referenced a previous “20-point plan” created for peace negotiations in Gaza as a model for a similar strategy regarding Ukraine.
Insights into Negotiation Strategies
This call provides a rare glimpse into Witkoff’s negotiation tactics with Russia. He articulated his respect for Putin and indicated that both leaders have a keen interest in achieving peace. Witkoff urged Ushakov to recommend that Putin congratulate Trump on the Gaza accord and portray Trump as a pro-peace figure.
Subsequent Developments
Following this conversation, a significant two-and-a-half-hour call took place between Trump and Putin, where both leaders described the discussion as productive. Subsequently, Trump announced plans for a forthcoming summit in Budapest with Putin. The dialogue appeared aimed at furthering peace discussions, particularly regarding Ukraine.
- Witkoff and Ushakov discussed the effectiveness of proposing a formal collaborative peace proposal.
- On October 24, Witkoff met with Kirill Dmitriev, a senior Kremlin adviser, to explore the negotiations further.
- By October 29, Dmitriev and Ushakov communicated about Russia’s demands concerning the peace proposal.
Major Implications for Ukraine
The negotiations have put pressure on Ukraine to consider the U.S.-drafted proposal, which may include significant territorial adjustments. U.S. officials have warned that failure to comply could lead to a withdrawal of critical military support.
The peace proposal entails a demand for Ukraine to withdraw forces from certain eastern regions, transitioning these areas into a neutral buffer zone recognized by international agreements. Additionally, Moscow seeks acknowledgment of its claims over Crimea and parts of Donetsk and Luhansk.
The Path Forward
Witkoff expressed optimism regarding reaching a peace agreement, suggesting negotiations should focus on potential compromises, including land swaps when applicable. He stressed the need for discussions framed around hope and possibility to facilitate progress.
As the situation evolves, Witkoff’s insights and strategies may play a crucial role in shaping future peace talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States.
