**US Envoy Rejects UK Peace Plan**
The US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, has dismissed the plan by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to create a coalition force for Ukraine. In an interview with American commentator Tucker Carlson on March 21, Witkoff called Starmer’s plan “simplistic” and just a “posture and pose.”
Witkoff said he doesn’t believe Russia wants to invade Europe or take over all of Ukraine. He also questioned the idea that Russia would march across Europe like Winston Churchill predicted.
**Coalition Plan in Question**
Starmer had proposed a “coalition of the willing” with countries joining forces for a ceasefire in Ukraine. This coalition would include air support and troops on the ground, backed by the US. Over 30 countries have expressed interest in joining this force.
However, Witkoff disagreed with the idea, saying it’s not necessary to have such a big effort. He praised former President Donald Trump for his efforts to negotiate with Russia, and even defended Russian President Vladimir Putin as being gracious.
**Ignoring Reality**
Witkoff also echoed Russian propaganda by claiming that people in occupied Ukraine want to be under Russian rule. However, these referendums were seen as sham elections held at gunpoint.
He later told Fox News that he’s not taking sides, but believes Russia considers the occupied territories their own. Witkoff repeatedly supported Trump’s 30-day ceasefire agreement, which has been repeatedly violated by Russia despite the US trying to negotiate a full ceasefire.
**Next Steps**
The UK will host military planning sessions this week to prepare high-level plans for mobilizing the coalition force. US representatives will meet with Ukrainian and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia on March 23 and 24 to discuss the ceasefire.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com