Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff praised Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “humanitarian” during a meeting in St. Petersburg following the release of American citizen Stephen Hubbard, who had been detained in Ukraine for over four years. The comments drew immediate criticism from both Republican and Democratic senators, with some calling Witkoff’s characterization outrageous and others questioning his qualifications. The exchange occurred as the Trump administration has taken steps to ease relations with Russia, including waiving sanctions and resuming purchases of Russian diesel. Meanwhile, questions persist regarding the White House’s role in limiting Starlink internet access in Ukraine, and President Trump has downplayed the extent of Russia’s ongoing attacks. The United Nations reported at least 328 civilian deaths and 2,105 injuries in Ukraine during September alone.
Witkoff made the remarks directly to Putin, stating, “You talk so much about my president, President Trump, being a humanitarian. You are a humanitarian also, sir,” and adding, “I salute that.” Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) responded on X, questioning Witkoff’s statement and urging him to ask the families of Ukrainian children allegedly kidnapped and murdered by Putin whether they agree. Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) labeled Putin a “stone cold killer” and “war criminal,” respectively, citing his actions in Ukraine. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) questioned Witkoff’s competence and the purpose of the visit. Representative Don Bacon (R-Neb.) called the incident another embarrassment.
Vice President JD Vance defended Witkoff’s remarks, stating he agreed with “Steve Witkoff saying something nice to a person who just released an American hostage,” and characterizing Witkoff as a diplomat “trying to get a job done.” In the past two weeks, President Trump waived fresh sanctions on Putin and resumed buying Russian diesel. The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin in 2023. The UN reported at least 328 civilians were killed and 2,105 injured as a result of Putin’s attacks on Ukraine in September alone. Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, four and a half years before launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Our reading is that the Trump administration, through its envoy, is prioritizing securing American citizens abroad and easing relations with Russia even while acknowledging the ongoing conflict and civilian casualties in Ukraine. The praise offered to Putin, coupled with the resumption of diesel purchases and sanction waivers, suggests a willingness to prioritize direct engagement with Russia over maintaining a unified front with allies. The contrast between Witkoff’s characterization of Putin and the descriptions offered by other senators highlights a significant divergence in perspectives on the Russian president’s actions.
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