Trump appoints real estate developer to negotiate with Russia on Ukraine war

Steve Witkoff, a billionaire real estate developer and friend of President Trump, has been appointed as a key negotiator in U.S. talks with Russia regarding the Ukraine war. This marks a shift from traditional diplomatic roles. Witkoff recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin for discussions that included the Ukraine conflict. He previously facilitated a U.S.-Russia prisoner swap, indicating a potential improvement in relations. Witkoff is also involved in U.S.-Russian talks in Saudi Arabia, which have raised concerns among Western allies about their exclusion from discussions. His background is primarily in real estate, not diplomacy.