New York: A leaked transcript involving one of Donald Trump’s key envoys, Steve Witkoff, has sparked controversy and raised questions about the direction of ongoing Ukraine peace efforts. The transcript, published by Bloomberg and later reported by the Associated Press, shows Witkoff advising a top aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin on how the Kremlin should frame a Russia backed peace plan before presenting it to Trump.
The transcript suggests that Witkoff encouraged the Kremlin representative to emphasize Trump’s role as a leader who wants peace. He also reportedly recommended that Putin congratulate Trump for helping negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza. The leak indicates that the peace proposal discussed contains a detailed plan, described in earlier reports as a 20 to 28 point outline.
Critics argue that the proposal includes conditions that may heavily benefit Moscow, including possible territorial compromises from Ukraine and limits on future NATO membership.
The revelations have caused alarm among Ukraine’s government and several European leaders. Ukrainian officials have expressed frustration and concern, saying that parts of the plan could weaken the country’s sovereignty.
European Union diplomats have warned that any peace plan must include Ukraine’s approval and should not result from private negotiations between world leaders without transparency.
Within the United States, the leaked discussion has led to political criticism. Several lawmakers have questioned whether the envoy’s actions align with national interests and diplomatic standards. Some have accused the Trump administration of allowing Russia to influence the structure of the peace process. A few members of Congress are now calling for hearings to determine whether backchannel negotiations with Moscow violated protocol.
Despite the growing controversy, the Kremlin confirmed that preparations are underway for an upcoming meeting in Moscow. Russian officials said there is a preliminary agreement for Witkoff to travel for direct talks. Reports also indicate that Jared Kushner may join the discussions. American officials have not yet confirmed whether Kushner will participate.
Meanwhile, fighting continues in Ukraine. Both countries have exchanged drone strikes in recent days, and field reports describe continuing clashes along sections of the front line.
Analysts say the ongoing military activity shows that neither side has committed to a ceasefire, even as diplomatic conversations continue.
Observers warn that any peace agreement will face challenges unless violence on the ground decreases.
The leaked transcript has also raised concerns about transparency in the peace process. Some analysts say that private advice between negotiators is common, but helping one side strengthen its bargaining message could damage trust among international partners and peace negotiators. Others argue that leaks of sensitive discussions may slow or disrupt progress.
With the planned Moscow trip approaching, global attention remains focused on how the talks will move forward. The Ukrainian government has repeatedly stated that any final agreement must include full sovereignty, the restoration of control over occupied territories, and security guarantees. Russia has not publicly commented on whether it is willing to revise the original proposal.
As both diplomacy and military operations continue in parallel, the outcome of the upcoming meetings may shape the next stage of the conflict. More updates are expected as responses emerge from Kyiv, Washington and Moscow in the coming days.