US special envoy Steve Witkoff has drawn sharp criticism for praising Russian President Vladimir Putin as a humanitarian. This statement was made while Witkoff was representing the United States in talks with Putin in Russia.
What happened
Witkoff's comments have been widely condemned, given Putin's history as a former KGB intelligence officer and his role in the ongoing war in Ukraine. The conflict has resulted in numerous atrocities, including the Bucha massacres, which saw the recovery of 458 bodies, many showing signs of torture, and the bombing of a children's hospital in Kyiv.
It is estimated that over 2,400 medical centers have been damaged or destroyed in Ukraine, and thousands of civilians, including children, have been killed or injured. Additionally, 20,000 Ukrainian children have been illegally moved to Russia and separated from their families.
Witkoff's praise of Putin has been seen as shameful and dangerous, as it may give the impression that the US condones the Russian leader's actions. The move has sparked outrage, with many arguing that Putin's actions are far from humanitarian.
