Trump's Terms Leaked call transcripts reveal U.S. envoy coaching Putin aide on pitching peace plan
Nov 26, 2025
Eleanor Beardsley, an NPR correspondent in Europe, and Bridget Brink, former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, delve into the controversial leaked call between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and a Putin aide. They discuss Ukraine's sharp reaction and Witkoff's questionable advice to Russia. Brink emphasizes that genuine peace is unlikely, urging the U.S. to focus on preventing further conflict rather than territorial negotiations. The pair also explore U.S. strategies like sanctions and military support to navigate this complex geopolitical landscape.
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Leaked Call Suggests Russian Role In Plan
- Bloomberg published a transcript of a mid-October call between Steve Witkoff and Putin advisor Yuri Ushakov that suggests U.S. envoy coached Russia on a peace plan.
- The transcript implies Russian input shaped the original 28-point plan, though NPR hasn't independently confirmed the recording.
Envoy Encouraged Putin To Flatter Trump
- Steve Witkoff encouraged Yuri Ushakov to get Putin to call Trump and flatter him ahead of Zelensky's White House visit.
- The call signaled U.S. envoy advising the Russian side on managing President Trump rather than articulating U.S. interests.
Negotiation Norms Vs. This Call
- Bridget Brink says it's normal to talk to both sides, but abnormal for a U.S. negotiator to advise the aggressor without advancing U.S. interests.
- She observed Witkoff's call lacked articulation of U.S. objectives to protect Ukraine and deter Russia.