Zelensky Criticizes Trump's Envoy for Echoing Kremlin Views

In a bold statement, President Volodymyr Zelensky accused US special envoy Steve Witkoff of promoting Russian narratives after remarks on territorial negotiations, signaling ongoing tensions in Ukraine's geopolitical landscape.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly condemned US special envoy Steve Witkoff, claiming he is "spreading Russian narratives" following comments about a potential peace agreement with Russia that involves five contested Ukrainian regions. The accusation came after Witkoff, who recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggested that the resolution of the war hinges on these territories, specifically Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.

During a press conference in Kyiv, Zelensky firmly stated, "Witkoff appears to have embraced the Russian side's strategy... It is extremely dangerous, whether intentionally or not, to disseminate Russian narratives.” He emphasized that these territories rightfully belong to Ukraine and its future generations. In his interview with Fox News, Witkoff noted that the peace deal involves these regions but hinted at wider implications for international relations and economic opportunities.

Zelensky has previously criticized Witkoff's lack of military experience, comparing his skills to real estate rather than diplomacy. The Ukrainian President's comments follow a significant meeting in Paris, where US, Ukrainian, and European officials convened to discuss the ongoing war.

In related developments, former President Donald Trump shared his perspectives on Zelensky, suggesting a lack of enthusiasm for the Ukrainian leader while refraining from fully placing blame on him for the war's outbreak. He remarked, "I wouldn't say he's done the greatest job," amidst his ongoing critique of the current Ukrainian administration.

Furthermore, Zelensky disclosed that he has "information" about China supplying weaponry to Russia, asserting that Chinese representatives are involved in weapon production on Russian soil. China has yet to comment on these allegations, maintaining a stance of neutrality regarding the conflict as tensions continue to rise around Ukraine.