US envoy praises Putin, calls him a "great" leader

White House envoy Steve Witkoff recently praised Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing him as a “great” leader. In an interview, Witkoff shared his positive impressions after a lengthy meeting with Putin in Moscow. He stated that the talks focused on finding a way to end the conflict in Ukraine and were considered constructive. During the interview with Tucker Carlson, Witkoff mentioned that Putin expressed concern for U.S. President Donald Trump after he suffered an assassination attempt while campaigning. Witkoff recalled that Putin said he prayed for Trump, highlighting their friendship. Witkoff also noted that Putin commissioned a portrait of Trump and asked him to deliver it. These remarks indicate a shift in the U.S.'s approach to Russia under Trump’s administration, moving from viewing Putin as an adversary to acknowledging a more amiable relationship. On the topic of Ukraine, Witkoff urged President Volodymyr Zelensky to consider making a deal with Moscow, emphasizing the tough position Zelensky is in against a nuclear power. He urged that now might be the appropriate time to find a resolution.