**Trump’s Special Envoy Raising Concerns within White House**
The unconventional approach of US President Donald Trump‘s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, to high-stakes diplomacy with Russia and Iran is causing concern among officials at the White House. According to a report by the New York Post on April 30, sources close to the administration have expressed concerns over Witkoff’s decision to bypass traditional diplomatic protocol.
Witkoff, who has emerged as Trump’s de facto personal envoy to Russian President Vladimir Putin and handles Middle East affairs, has been participating in solo meetings with foreign leaders without the typical entourage of advisers, military officials, or experts. This approach has raised eyebrows among officials, particularly after Witkoff greeted Putin informally ahead of their meeting on April 25.
**Breach of Protocol**
One of the most significant concerns surrounding Witkoff’s approach is his decision to use Kremlin translators during discussions with Putin. This breach of standard US diplomatic practice has sparked worries that sensitive information may be compromised. Additionally, sources have described Witkoff as a “nice guy, but a bumbling f***ing idiot,” suggesting that he lacks the experience and expertise necessary for high-stakes diplomacy.
**Alarming Posture**
Witkoff’s posture has alarmed officials because of his tendency to echo Putin’s narratives while reportedly lacking a clear understanding of Ukraine‘s position. Despite being tasked with handling Ukraine-Russia negotiations, Witkoff frequently references Crimea and other occupied territories in discussions, raising concerns that he is prioritizing Russian interests over Ukrainian ones.
**Concerns Over Capacity**
Beyond his role in Ukraine-Russia negotiations, Witkoff has also been tasked with brokering Middle East ceasefires and revisiting the Iran nuclear deal. However, his limited diplomatic background has sparked doubts about his capacity to handle complex international negotiations. “Steve Witkoff is simply someone Trump trusts,” said Alexandra Filippenko, a US-Russia relations expert, noting that their relationship dates back to the 1980s Manhattan real estate scene.
**Unusual Arrangement**
Filippenko emphasized that Witkoff’s prominent role in such sensitive negotiations, despite operating outside the State Department, remains “an unusual arrangement.” This has raised concerns within the administration about the effectiveness of Witkoff’s approach and the potential risks to US interests.
As tensions between the US and Russia continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how Witkoff’s approach will impact US-Russia relations. One thing is certain, however: the unconventional approach of Trump’s special envoy has raised concerns within the White House about the effectiveness of his diplomacy.
