Witkoff Call Leak, Ukraine Crisis, and Thanksgiving Travel Updates on NPR
Significant revelations have emerged regarding peace negotiations involving Ukraine, following the release of transcripts by Bloomberg. These transcripts feature U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff coaching a Russian diplomat on how to communicate effectively with former President Donald Trump regarding a potential peace agreement.
Witkoff’s Involvement in Ukraine Peace Negotiations
During a call in mid-October, Witkoff allegedly provided advice to Yuri Ushakov, who is a foreign policy adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin. This conversation took place shortly after Trump imposed sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil companies. The transcripts appear to shed light on Witkoff’s advisory role as Trump seeks to bring an end to the Ukraine conflict.
Ukrainian Perspective on Peace Talks
Ukrainian parliament member Oleksandr Merezhko has responded to these developments, stating he is not surprised by Witkoff’s actions. Merezhko, who chairs the foreign affairs committee, had previously called for Witkoff’s replacement, citing incompetence and a lack of understanding of Ukraine’s situation.
He emphasized that Ukrainians are aware of the lens through which Trump’s entourage views Russia, yet the country must navigate these relationships cautiously.
Thanksgiving Travel Outlook
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, millions of Americans are expected to travel, following the recovery of the U.S. aviation system. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has launched a campaign promoting civility in travel, titled “The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You.” This initiative urges passengers to treat airline and airport staff with respect.
Record-Breaking Travel Volume
The Federal Aviation Administration predicts that this Thanksgiving could witness the highest level of air traffic in 15 years. Travelers should prepare for busy airports and potential delays as they make their holiday plans.
Ongoing Developments in Health
In health-related news, Dr. Ralph Abraham, the current Louisiana surgeon general who has controversially labeled COVID-19 vaccines as “dangerous,” is set to assume the role of principal deputy director at the CDC. His new position was previously held by Dr. Nirav Shah, who left earlier this year.
Future of Obesity Treatments
Drug manufacturers are advancing the development of oral versions of GLP-1 medications, designed to treat obesity. These pills, set to be approved by the FDA, could provide a more accessible alternative to injectables such as Wegovy and Ozempic. The expected cost for these new treatments could be significantly lower, potentially around $149 per month.
- FDA approval anticipated by the end of the year.
- Average weight loss could reach 16.6% over 64 weeks.
- The approval decision may impact drug prices significantly.
With these recent developments, attention remains fixed on both international relations surrounding the Ukraine crisis and the logistical challenges posed by Thanksgiving travel.
