Trump Envoy Steve Witkoff Takes Lead in Gaza and Ukraine Negotiations

Real estate mogul and longtime Trump ally Steve Witkoff has emerged as a central figure in high-stakes diplomatic efforts, leveraging his dealmaking skills to address global crises.

Steve Witkoff, a real estate investor with no prior diplomatic experience, has been tasked with leading negotiations on behalf of President Trump in Gaza and Ukraine.
Witkoff played a key role in finalizing a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, a deal initially proposed by the Biden administration, and has since expanded his portfolio to include U.S.-Russia relations.
Trump’s plan for Gaza, which includes relocating its Palestinian residents and redeveloping it, has drawn both support and criticism, with Witkoff defending the proposal publicly and in meetings with lawmakers.
Witkoff’s involvement in Ukraine negotiations has caused tension with allies, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders express concern over being sidelined in talks with Russia.
Critics question Witkoff’s qualifications and Trump’s unconventional approach to diplomacy, but supporters highlight his success in leveraging private-sector negotiation strategies to achieve results.