**Ukraine’s Leader Accuses US Envoy of Spreading Russian Propaganda**
In a scathing press briefing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused the US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff of spreading Russian propaganda and overstepping his authority. The controversy centers around Witkoff’s recent statements on back-channel peace talks with Moscow, which have been seen as favoring Russian interests.
Zelensky was quick to dismiss Witkoff’s comments, saying that Ukraine would not negotiate away its territory. “I believe Mr. Witkoff has adopted the strategy of the Russian side,” Zelensky said. “Consciously or not, he is spreading Russian narratives.” The Ukrainian leader emphasized that Ukraine will only discuss an unconditional ceasefire and that any talks about territories must wait until a ceasefire is achieved.
Witkoff’s statements, made in an interview with Fox News on April 14, suggested that a potential peace deal could center on the status of five territories, including Crimea, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. Zelensky warned that Russia remains uninterested in peace and continues to prepare for new military offensives.
**US Leadership Under Fire**
Zelensky also criticized US leadership, saying that they need to apply more pressure on Moscow. “The tougher the sanctions, the closer we are to a ceasefire,” he said. The Ukrainian leader urged President Donald Trump to ramp up sanctions against Russia, which has been accused of violating international law and perpetuating aggression in Ukraine.
Witkoff’s actions have drawn criticism from both US and Ukrainian officials. Senior officials within the Trump administration have reportedly urged Trump to reject concessions that favor Russian control over Ukrainian land. Meanwhile, Russia continues to violate a partial ceasefire agreed on March 25, which was intended to cover energy infrastructure and Black Sea targets.
**Background and Context**
It’s worth noting that Witkoff, officially the US envoy to the Middle East, has been tasked with negotiating a peace in Ukraine since last year. However, his actions have raised concerns about his impartiality and whether he is truly working towards a Ukrainian-led solution or pushing for concessions that favor Russian interests.
In recent months, senior officials within the Trump administration have urged the president to reject concessions that would give Russia de facto control over parts of Ukraine. The full 30-day ceasefire proposed by Trump and backed by Kyiv remains rejected by Moscow, which continues to perpetuate aggression in Ukraine.
**What’s Next?**
As tensions remain high between Ukraine and Russia, it’s unclear what will come next. One thing is certain: the international community will be watching closely as negotiations continue. Will US leadership take a firmer stance on sanctions against Russia? Will Witkoff’s role as a mediator change in response to Zelensky’s criticism? Only time will tell.
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