CNN
Steve Witkoff’s Diplomatic Role Expands
Last month, a private jet owned by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff traveled from Abu Dhabi to Doha, Moscow, and Baku, ultimately landing in Florida, where he briefed President Donald Trump on his discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin—all in just a few days.
This was merely another busy week for Witkoff, whose global engagements have expanded significantly beyond his initial responsibilities, revealing that he holds a unique level of trust from President Trump that few others in the administration enjoy.
Recently, Witkoff participated in discussions with Ukrainian and European officials in Paris aimed at ending the Ukraine War and was scheduled to head to Rome for further negotiations with Iran concerning a potential nuclear agreement.
Within just three months, Witkoff has emerged as Trump’s primary contact for some of the most pressing foreign policy issues confronting the administration. His extensive role has occasionally intersected with responsibilities typical of secretaries of state and CIA directors.
While Witkoff lacks formal government experience, this has raised concerns domestically and internationally about Trump’s assessment of more seasoned foreign policy experts within his team and Witkoff’s readiness to operate at such a high level on the global stage.
Despite the early days of his role, results have been varied. Witkoff has thus far failed to restore the recent truce in Gaza, and Russia dismissed a ceasefire proposal for Ukraine made over a month ago. Moreover, Iranian officials criticized Witkoff’s inconsistent stance on their nuclear program as “contradictory and conflicting.”
Witkoff’s ongoing efforts have encountered frustration over the lack of advancements in resolving the Ukraine conflict. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed to reporters that if progress isn’t made soon, the U.S. may have to reconsider its approach to seeking peace.
