EDITOR’S NOTE (Nick Stamatakis). This was a remarkable interview, as it revealed how Steven Witkoff, Trump’s main negotiator in Ukraine and the Middle East, is handling the main issues but also the details on both fronts. You can watch the whole interview below – but here is a summary:
Perception of Eastern Ukrainian Regions: Witkoff claimed that the majority of residents in occupied eastern Ukrainian regions prefer Russian rule, referencing disputed referendums.
Critique of European Peacekeeping Proposals: He criticized UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s plan to deploy peacekeepers to Ukraine, labeling it as “Churchill-like posing” and unnecessary.
Praise for Vladimir Putin: Witkoff praised Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling him “super smart” and downplaying his ambitions in Ukraine, suggesting Putin had already achieved his goals by reclaiming certain regions, including Crimea.
Ceasefire Negotiations: He expressed optimism about achieving a 30-day ceasefire focusing on energy infrastructure, with potential expansion to Black Sea shipping, despite acknowledging significant differences between Kyiv and Moscow.
Diplomatic Approach: Witkoff emphasized the importance of mutual respect and recognition of contested territories in peace talks, expressing confidence in Trump and Putin’s ability to resolve the conflict.
Larry Johnson, the experienced CIA analyst, criticizes – justifiably – Witkoff in his sonar21.com blog: In a few words (but I strongly recommend reading the full analysis) Larry Johnson critiques Steve Witkoff for his lack of understanding of key geopolitical issues. Johnson argues that Witkoff’s diplomatic approach is flawed because he has not directly engaged with Hamas, relying instead on Qatari intermediaries. He also challenges Witkoff’s views on Hamas, accusing him of promoting Israeli propaganda. Additionally, Johnson criticizes Witkoff’s endorsement of Al Jawlani in Syria and his unrealistic expectations for peace in Ukraine. He warns that Witkoff’s biases could misguide Trump’s foreign policy decisions.
BELOW IS THE FULL INTERVIEW
================
Stalin put Polish Lvov in Ukraine. Lvov agiates for Poland and Catholicism. Krushchev put Crimea in Ukraine.
Greek independence was organized by the Friends Society in Odessa at the Invitation of Catherine, once she retook Odessa. Ypsilanti got to run a newly liberated Moldovlahia, now known as Moldova. Many Greeks joined the Russian army when the Orlovs took the Eptanese from Napoleon. The Russians gave them to the British who then gave them to Greece. And of course, Kyev is the Jerusalem of Russia just as Kosovo is for Serbia, Nagorno for Armenia and Constantinople for Greece.
It is entirely normal and national interests…for Russians, Americans, Germans, Italians…Turkish etc to protect their national interest and land …with the exception of Hellas ! ..especially the last 50 years…