Trump Envoy Used Kremlin Interpreter in Putin Meetings
Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, deviated from standard diplomatic procedure during three high-level meetings with Vladimir Putin by using Kremlin interpreters instead of his own. This decision, criticized by former U.S. ambassadors, raised concerns about potential misinterpretations and the lack of independent verification of Putin’s statements. Witkoff’s reliance on Kremlin translators also compromised the creation of accurate meeting records crucial for subsequent briefings and negotiations. Despite Witkoff’s efforts, Russia shows little interest in a negotiated settlement to the war in Ukraine.
John Q. Hosedrinker