In an unexpected turn of events, Steve Witkoff, a billionaire real estate developer and personal friend of former President Donald Trump, has emerged as a key player in negotiations surrounding the Ukraine conflict. Unlike traditional diplomatic representatives, Witkoff, who lacks formal diplomatic training, was chosen by Trump to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to explore avenues for ending the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Witkoff’s role in international negotiations
During his recent trip to Moscow, Witkoff engaged in discussions that resulted in a significant prisoner exchange between the United States and Russia, an action interpreted as a potential easing of tensions between the two nations. His involvement extends to the ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, a diplomatic achievement that has seen both Trump and his successor, Joe Biden, claim credit.
Although Witkoff had not yet officially assumed his role as Middle East envoy, he traveled to Tel Aviv to confer with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prior to the ceasefire agreement being finalized in Qatar. In Doha, he collaborated with Biden’s envoy, Brett McGurk, who praised their cooperation, referring to it as a “very close partnership, even friendship,” as reported by the Washington Post.
A new kind of diplomatic approach
Witkoff is now set to return to the Middle East, specifically Saudi Arabia, for the inaugural US-Russian discussions regarding the Ukraine war, following a direct communication between Trump and Putin. Accompanying him are US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. However, these bold diplomatic maneuvers have sparked concerns among Western allies, who worry about a shifting global order in which critical stakeholders such as Ukraine and various European nations are excluded from vital discussions.
Dubbed “the man in the room” by US media, Witkoff’s background offers a fascinating insight into his unexpected rise in international diplomacy. Trump has long viewed him as a powerful negotiator, stating, “Steve will be an unrelenting voice for PEACE, and make us all proud.” A White House official echoed this sentiment, referring to Witkoff as one of the world’s premier dealmakers, known for employing charm as well as assertiveness in negotiations.
At 67, Witkoff has a background that combines a successful career in real estate with a deep-rooted connection to the Republican Party, having been a long-time donor and associate of Trump. Their friendship extends beyond business, as they are also avid golfing partners. US Senator Lindsey Graham shared a humorous recollection of their golfing escapades, noting that Witkoff and he would often compete against Trump in matches.
Witkoff’s ambitions as a diplomatic envoy reportedly include efforts to engage Iran, with sources indicating that he may lead negotiations for a nuclear agreement with Tehran as part of a broader initiative to “stop the wars” in the region. His skills in diplomacy have been evident throughout Trump’s 2024 campaign, where he played a pivotal role in mitigating tensions with key Republican figures, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Currently, Witkoff serves as the chairman of the University of Miami’s business school real estate advisory board and is a trustee of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, both positions reflecting his diverse influence and commitment to public service.