Republicans in US Congress criticise Witkoff over remarks on Putin

Criticism of special envoy's statements

A group of Republicans in the US Congress expressed dissatisfaction with the remarks made by US President's special envoy Steve Witkoff. The politician called Russian dictator Vladimir Putin a "humanist" during a meeting held in St Petersburg. This characterisation prompted criticism from some members of the Republican Party.

Diplomatic context

The reaction came against the backdrop of diplomatic contacts between the administration of US President Donald Trump and the Kremlin regarding Russia's war against Ukraine.

Vice President's position

Earlier, US Vice President JD Vance commented on Witkoff's words. He noted that the special envoy acts as a diplomat whose task is to achieve results in negotiations. Vance explained that Witkoff said something pleasant to a person who had just released an American hostage, but did not directly confirm that he shared the characterisation of Putin as a "humanist".