Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has strongly criticized US President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, accusing him of spreading “Kremlin narratives” and undermining Ukraine’s position in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Ukrainian leader made these remarks during an interview with European broadcasters on March 26, particularly targeting Witkoff’s statements regarding the status of Ukrainian territories that have fallen under Russian control.

The diplomatic clash highlights a growing rift between Zelensky and elements of the Trump administration, particularly over how to approach the war in Ukraine. Witkoff, a key figure in opening negotiations related to the war, has been accused by Zelensky of aligning with Russian President Vladimir Putin and weakening US pressure on Moscow.

Zelensky did not hold back in his criticism of Witkoff, stating – “I believe that Witkoff really does quote Kremlin narratives very often. I believe that this will not bring us closer to peace. And I believe that, unfortunately, this will weaken the American pressure on Russia. We can only fix this information backdrop through our actions. We’re trying to do that.”

The Ukrainian president further accused Witkoff of being an obstacle to Ukraine’s efforts to resist Russian aggression, adding – “Witkoff’s statements are very much a hindrance to us because we are fighting Putin and we really do not want him to have many helpers.”

Zelensky’s frustration stems from a recent interview Witkoff gave to American journalist Tucker Carlson. During the interview, Witkoff acknowledged that territories under Russian control are overwhelmingly Russian-speaking and have held........

© Blitz