Ukraine conflict newest: Trump’s trusted fixer leaves Moscow after assembly Putin – as report suggests Kremlin sees president as ‘weak’ | World Information

If you happen to’ve been following our protection, you will know Steve Witkoff is in Moscow now for talks on learn how to finish the conflict.

However Witkoff’s preliminary temporary, technically, is not Ukraine, it is the Center East – extra on who he’s and his position right here.

He is been an everyday fixture in negotiations to date, which has made the absence of Donald Trump’s precise Ukraine conflict envoy all of the extra conspicuous.

In accordance with our US accomplice community NBC Information, Russia doesn’t need Keith Kellogg concerned in top-level discussions.

It isn’t clear if Kellogg’s absence is linked to Russia’s request – and it is not clear when it was made – however a US official advised NBC that it was not heeded.

Some high-ranking former Russian officers have complained Trump’s envoy is, of their view, too sympathetic to Kyiv.

A retired lieutenant basic, Kellogg has at instances been extra essential of Russia than different officers have been. 

For instance, he sharply criticised Russia for a Christmas-time assault on Ukrainian inhabitants centres.

Nonetheless, Kellogg has constantly defended Trump’s positions on the Ukraine conflict, together with the latest pause to some intelligence sharing.

Nationwide Safety Council spokesperson James Hewitt insisted Kellogg is enjoying a vital position in bringing the conflict to an finish.

“President Trump has utilised the abilities of a number of senior administration officers to help within the bringing the conflict in Ukraine to a peaceable decision,” he mentioned.