Steve Witkoff’s diplomatic approach in the Kremlin raised eyebrows among Ukrainians. Sitting across from Vladimir Putin on Saturday, Donald Trump’s special envoy expressed gratitude for the meeting. His flattery of Putin aimed to ease tensions, describing the encounter as a memorable story for retirement.
Diplomatic Attempts amid Conflict
The ongoing war has killed and wounded thousands, displaced millions, and burdened Ukraine with $588 billion in reconstruction needs. Russian troops continue their advance, and drones frequently attack Ukrainian skies. Despite the slow progress toward peace, Witkoff’s approach highlights a need for more diplomatic efforts in the future.
A Temporary Respite
The recent diplomatic visit yielded minimal results in moving towards a peace agreement but achieved a temporary pause in hostilities. Witkoff and Kushner’s brief visit to the Kremlin was followed by a trip to Kyiv. During this period, there was a short-lived calm, as Putin ordered a three-day cessation of strikes on Kyiv, reciprocated by Ukraine for Moscow.
Ukrainian President Zelensky jokingly thanked Witkoff and Kushner for providing some respite, comparing their effect to advanced defense systems. Kyiv has faced relentless drone attacks, with only a fraction intercepted. New air defense initiatives are underway, but diplomacy remains a priority for reducing aggression.
Limited Diplomatic Influence
While flattery can offer temporary benefits, it is insufficient to alter Russia’s stance. Putin aides reported no change in Russia’s demands: full Ukrainian withdrawal from specific regions, NATO exclusion, and recognition of Russian annexations. Putin remains confident in achieving his goals through military force alone.
Witkoff’s shuttle diplomacy, moving between Moscow and Kyiv, risks reducing his role to that of a messenger. Kushner highlighted this by expressing a preference for direct trilateral discussions, rather than intermediaries conveying the Russian stance to Ukraine.
Moving Forward with Diplomacy
Witkoff’s efforts, marked by multiple trips to Moscow and a recent visit to Kyiv, show minimal promise for immediate conflict resolution. Zelensky anticipates the conflict continuing through winter unless significant battlefield changes occur in Ukraine’s favor.
Despite the limited progress, diplomatic visits that lead to temporary ceasefires can gradually become standard practice. Routine pauses offer opportunities to develop a framework for restraint, despite falling short of peace. Witkoff’s efforts may continue to leverage pauses, progressively extending them. Ukrainians may not admire the flattering approach but can benefit from its practical outcomes.