With Witkoff and Kushner, Trump Bets on Diplomacy Without Diplomats

President Trump has placed his most trusted envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, at the center of talks with Iran, Russia and Ukraine, sidelining the State Department and the National Security Council. In Geneva, the pair met the Iranians in the morning and the Russians and Ukrainians in the afternoon.

Their transactional, dealmaker style—shaped by New York property negotiations—has been welcomed by Russia, Turkey and the Gulf Arab states; they do not spend much time lecturing on human rights or democracy building. Some Russians call them “Witkoff and Zyatkoff,” and Iranians have nicknamed Mr.

Kushner “Damad Trump.” Iranian media have devoted coverage, and Ahmad Zeidabadi wrote that Mr. Kushner’s participation was something “positive,” saying “He represents the pragmatic and softer side of Trump.” Supporters say their personal wealth makes them more resistant to corrupting influences, yet both men face questions about conflicts of interest.

United States, Geneva

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