In a surprising diplomatic move, former President Donald Trump recently appointed billionaire real estate developer Steve Witkoff as his Middle East envoy, tasking him with addressing significant global crises, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Instead of sending a seasoned diplomat or a member of his administration, Trump chose Witkoff, a personal friend and golf buddy, to engage directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Witkoff’s recent trip to Moscow marked a notable moment in U.S.-Russia relations, as he participated in discussions that aimed to facilitate a prisoner exchange between the two nations. This effort was seen as a potential step toward easing tensions and fostering dialogue amidst the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump described Witkoff’s lengthy meeting with Putin, which lasted around three hours, as a crucial engagement in seeking a resolution to the conflict.
In addition to his role in the Moscow talks, Witkoff has been instrumental in brokering a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, a feat that both Trump and President Joe Biden have publicly acknowledged. Although he was not officially in his role at the time, Witkoff traveled to Tel Aviv to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and collaborated with Biden’s envoy in Qatar, highlighting a cooperative effort to stabilize the region.
Witkoff is now set to return to the Middle East, specifically Saudi Arabia, for the first in-person talks between U.S. and Russian officials regarding the Ukraine war. He will be accompanied by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. However, this meeting has raised concerns among Western allies, as key players like Ukraine and other European nations were notably excluded from the discussions, prompting fears of a shifting global order.
Steve Witkoff, a prominent figure in the real estate sector, has been a long-time supporter of Trump and has known him for decades. His background in real estate, particularly in the competitive markets of New York and Florida, has shaped his approach to negotiation, which combines charm with strategic pressure. At 67, Witkoff has been active in Republican circles and has served on various boards, including the University of Miami’s business school advisory board and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The decision to appoint Witkoff, who has no formal diplomatic experience, underscores Trump’s unconventional approach to foreign policy. While some view Witkoff as a skilled dealmaker capable of fostering peace, his lack of traditional qualifications raises questions about the effectiveness of his role in high-stakes international negotiations. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, Witkoff’s involvement may signal a new era in U.S. diplomacy, one that prioritizes personal relationships over established diplomatic protocols.