PUTIN defends WITKOFF against accusations of pro‑Russia bias

Friday, November 28, 2025 -Russian President Vladimir Putin praised U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, saying the envoy “quite reliably conveyed to President Trump the position of the Russian side.” He defended Witkoff’s role after critics accused him of bias for transmitting Moscow’s views directly to Washington.

Putin dismissed those who criticize Witkoff as “those who don’t like this position,” adding that criticism of the envoy is tantamount to rejecting the broader negotiated stance between Russia and the U.S. on the war in Ukraine.

The defense comes amid deep controversy over Witkoff’s repeated statements that appear to mirror Kremlin narratives — including endorsements of Russian claims on Ukrainian territories and skepticism toward Ukraine’s current government.

Those remarks have drawn sharp rebukes from Ukrainian officials and Western observers, who argue they undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and compromise impartial mediation.