Trump envoy draws criticism for calling Putin a 'humanitarian'

US special envoy Steve Witkoff faced criticism on Wednesday for calling Vladimir Putin a “humanitarian” despite the Russian leader’s war in Ukraine. “You talk so much about my president, President Trump, being a humanitarian — you are a humanitarian also, sir, and I salute that,” Witkoff said. “I commend you, and I thank you again.” (https://www.malaymail.com/amp/news/world/2026/10/22/trump-envoy-draws-criticism-for-calling-putin-humanitarian/240158; https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/trump-envoy-steve-witkoff-calls-putin-humanitarian-sparks-backlash-12217861/amp/1)

Witkoff spoke as he met Putin in St Petersburg to secure the release of Stephen Hubbard, an American detained for years following his arrest in Ukraine. The Kremlin said afterwards that Russia was ready in principle to rejoin three-way talks with Ukraine and the United States. (https://www.malaymail.com/amp/news/world/2026/10/22/trump-envoy-draws-criticism-for-calling-putin-humanitarian/240158)

Republican Senator Thom Tillis, a frequent recent Trump critic, reacted with astonishment. “WTF, Steve? Look up the definition of ‘humanitarian’,” he posted on X. Trump — who appointed his business friend Witkoff as roving envoy for the Ukraine, Iran and Gaza conflicts last year — brushed the remarks off. “Well, I guess you could say (it) for that particular purpose, for the purpose of allowing a man who was thinking he was going to be in prison for life out,” Trump said. “But you know, I wouldn’t say anything one way or the other.” (https://www.malaymail.com/amp/news/world/2026/10/22/trump-envoy-draws-criticism-for-calling-putin-humanitarian/240158; https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/trump-envoy-steve-witkoff-calls-putin-humanitarian-sparks-backlash-12217861/amp/1)

US Vice President JD Vance defended Witkoff at an event in Ohio. “I agree with Steve Witkoff saying something nice to a person who just released an American hostage,” Vance said. “Whether you agree with the underlying sentiment or not, Steve Witkoff is a diplomat. His job is to go over there and get a job done.” (https://www.malaymail.com/amp/news/world/2026/10/22/trump-envoy-draws-criticism-for-calling-putin-humanitarian/240158; https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/trump-envoy-steve-witkoff-calls-putin-humanitarian-sparks-backlash-12217861/amp/1)