Ukrainian officials are demanding the removal of Trump’s Special Envoy Steve Witkoff after his controversial comments about Russian-claimed territories. The diplomatic row threatens to undermine peace talks as the Trump administration pushes for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
At a glance:
• Ukrainian official Oleksandr Merezkho called for President Trump to fire Special Envoy Steve Witkoff following his Tucker Carlson interview
• Witkoff sparked outrage by suggesting Russian-speaking regions of Ukraine rightfully belong to Russia based on “referendums”
• The Trump envoy appeared to accept the legitimacy of votes widely considered fraudulent by Western powers
• Merezkho questioned whether Witkoff represents Trump or Putin, calling his statements “shameful” and “shocking”
• Vice President JD Vance has defended Witkoff’s efforts on social media despite the mounting criticism
Ukrainian Official Demands Witkoff’s Removal
A senior Ukrainian official has called for President Trump to dismiss his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff after controversial statements appearing to legitimize Russian claims to Ukrainian territory. The real estate magnate turned diplomat made the comments during a recent interview with Tucker Carlson and sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles.
Oleksandr Merezkho, Chairman of Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Committee and member of President Zelensky’s Servant of the People Party, did not mince words when responding to Witkoff. The Ukrainian official questioned both his loyalties and his competence in a stinging rebuke.
“Let’s call a spade a spade, these are just shameful, shocking statements… He is relaying Russian propaganda. And I have a question, who is he? Is he a Trump envoy, or maybe he is a Putin envoy?” Merezkho said.
The controversy stems from Witkoff’s apparent acceptance of Russian-orchestrated referendums in occupied Ukrainian territories. These votes have been widely dismissed by international observers as fraudulent and conducted under military occupation.
Witkoff’s Controversial Claims
During the interview with Carlson, Witkoff made additional statements that critics say parrot Kremlin talking points. His comments about Russian-speaking regions have drawn particular criticism from both Ukrainian and European officials.
“They are Russian-speaking, and there have been referendums where the overwhelming majority of the people have indicated that they want to be under Russian rule,” Witkoff said, directly contradicting the position of the US government under both the Biden and Trump administrations.
Mr. Witkoff also struggled to recall the names of Ukrainian regions claimed by Russia. This raised further questions about his preparedness for such a sensitive diplomatic role in ongoing peace negotiations.
The Trump envoy furthermore downplayed concerns about Russian expansionism, calling fears that Putin might invade Europe “preposterous.” This dismissal of NATO allies’ security concerns has fueled additional criticism from European partners.
Peace Talks and Political Fallout
The diplomatic controversy comes at a delicate time as the Trump administration pursues peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Witkoff, who was initially appointed as a Middle East envoy, has become a key figure in the administration’s outreach to Moscow.
Despite the backlash, Witkoff defended his approach to negotiations. “I’m always trying to put myself in the shoes of the other person, because a good deal has to work for everybody,” he explained.
The Trump administration continues to push for a negotiated settlement to the conflict. Vice President JD Vance has publicly defended Witkoff’s diplomatic efforts on social media, indicating the White House may stand by its envoy.
