Kremlin warns against calls to dismiss US envoy amid Ukraine talks

The Kremlin has issued a warning that calls for the removal of US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff could damage emerging efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov made the statement during an interview with Russian state media, characterizing the demands as a deliberate attempt to disrupt what he described as "fragile trends" toward negotiation. This development occurs amid ongoing international diplomatic efforts to end the hostilities, with nations like Türkiye having previously facilitated dialogue between the warring parties.

Alleged Leaks and Their Interpretation

Peskov's comments came in response to the publication of alleged transcripts of conversations between Witkoff and Russian Presidential Assistant Yury Ushakov. The Kremlin spokesman sought to downplay the significance of the leaked material, stating, "Above all, there's nothing frightening in this material," while avoiding confirmation of its authenticity. He noted that even US President Donald Trump had characterized the discussions as "typical negotiator work," suggesting the content represented normal diplomatic engagement rather than improper conduct.

A Deliberate Sabotage Campaign

The Russian official framed the calls for Witkoff's dismissal as part of a coordinated effort to derail peace prospects. "Probably, those voices that are now calling for Witkoff's dismissal primarily aim to sabotage the fragile trends towards finding a path to resolution through peace negotiations," Peskov asserted. He further warned that numerous actors, both within the United States and internationally, would not hesitate "to do whatever it takes to thwart this process," indicating Moscow's perception of significant opposition to a negotiated settlement.

The Fragile State of Peace Efforts

The Kremlin's statements reflect the delicate and contentious nature of current diplomatic initiatives to end the Ukraine conflict. By publicly defending the US envoy and characterizing his critics as saboteurs, Moscow is attempting to shield the negotiation channel from internal American political pressures. This positioning comes as various international mediators, including Türkiye, continue to advocate for a diplomatic solution to a war that has had profound global economic and security consequences.