Leaked Call Highlights Trump’s Aides’ Strategies with Russia
A recent phone call became a point of discussion as it revealed that aides to Trump were reportedly advising Russian officials on using flattery to influence negotiations for a peace deal regarding Ukraine.
According to reports, an October 14 call between Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkov, and Yuri Ushakov, who is a key foreign policy advisor to Russian President Vladimir Putin, touched on the idea of having a conversation between Trump and Putin to discuss potential peace arrangements.
During the brief exchange, Witkov suggested that Ushakov advise Putin to begin their conversation with compliments directed towards Trump. He asserted, “I want to call and reiterate that I congratulate the president on this accomplishment… I’m really happy to see that come to fruition,” emphasizing how goodwill could help foster dialogue.
Ushakov seemed open to this strategy, responding, “Hey Steve, I agree that he would bless you and say that Mr. Trump is a true pacifist.” It appears there was a shared understanding of the need for a positive approach.
Witkov went further by outlining what he views as crucial elements for achieving a peace agreement, including the necessity of land swaps. “I know what it takes to get a peace deal: a land swap in Donetsk and maybe somewhere,” he explained.
While he highlighted the challenges, he maintained a hopeful tone about reaching an agreement: “Instead of talking like that, let’s hopefully talk more… I think we can come to an agreement here.” Witkov also brought up a previous 20-point peace plan he helped broker, hinting at a desire for something similar to be established between Russia and the U.S.
The call took place just days ahead of a planned visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to the White House. Witkov emphasized the importance of having a conversation between Trump and Putin before that meeting.
As part of his preparations, he mentioned, “I think I’ll be on the phone with my boss before the Friday meeting if possible.”
Meanwhile, the White House has been approached for comments regarding the situation. The discussions among higher administration officials hinted at an ongoing attempt to refine the contentious 28-point peace proposal aimed at ending the prolonged conflict between the countries.
This pro-Russian initiative had originally proposed significant concessions from Ukraine, including relinquishing the entire Donbass region and downsizing its military while dropping its aspirations for NATO membership. However, it was later narrowed down to a 19-point plan by top delegations from both Washington and Kiev.
Ultimately, the new proposal would remove a particularly controversial requirement for Ukraine to cede territory it has held for over a decade. In response, Russian officials indicated that they would likely reject the updated ceasefire terms, suggesting that open conflict might continue at least until Christmas.
