Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff on Thursday for describing Russian President Vladimir Putin as a 'humanitarian' amid overnight missile strikes on Kyiv.
Zelensky stated on X that Russian forces launched three waves of ballistic missiles at Kyiv since the previous evening, using 21 missiles in total. The strikes damaged residential buildings, energy facilities, railway stations, metro systems, shopping malls, and businesses across the city.
U.S. envoy’s remarks spark diplomatic dispute
Witkoff’s characterization of Putin as a 'humanitarian' was made during a meeting with the Russian president, according to reports. The meeting coincided with Moscow’s agreement to release an American citizen, Stephen Hubbard, who had been jailed in Russia since 2022 for fighting in Ukraine.
UK rejects Witkoff’s description of Putin
Scotland Secretary Douglas Alexander publicly dismissed Witkoff’s remarks, stating that the UK does not recognize Putin as a humanitarian. Alexander emphasized that the UK views Putin as responsible for the illegal invasion of Ukraine and condemned Russia’s conduct, including attempted assassinations on UK soil. He reaffirmed the UK’s support for Zelensky and Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Ongoing military actions and diplomatic signals
Despite Witkoff’s meeting with Putin, Russia continued its missile strikes on Kyiv. Reports indicated that Moscow had agreed in principle to resume peace talks with Ukraine and the U.S., though no public shift in Russia’s demands has been confirmed. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Zelensky for targeting Russian oil infrastructure, citing rising diesel prices in the U.S. as a result of the conflict in Iran.
Context and background
The exchange follows heightened diplomatic activity involving the U.S., UK, and Ukraine. Trump has suggested that the sides may be closer to ending the war, though Western allies have expressed concern over recent U.S. actions, including dropped sanctions and a diesel supply deal with Russia. The UK’s rejection of Witkoff’s remarks underscores ongoing divisions among Western allies regarding engagement with Russia.