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Steve Witkoff: The friend of Trump leading Putin ceasefire negotiations

Steve Witkoff
Steve Witkoff (AP)
  • Steve Witkoff, a real estate mogul and longtime friend of Donald Trump, is acting as a key foreign policy figure in the Trump administration.
  • Witkoff played a crucial role in negotiating a prisoner swap with Russia, securing the release of American teacher Marc Fogel. He also facilitated a hostage and ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel before Trump's inauguration.
  • He is currently involved in high-level talks aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war, having recently traveled to Moscow as part of a US delegation.
  • Witkoff's relationship with Trump dates back to the 1980s, evolving from a chance deli encounter to a close friendship and business partnership, including involvement in Trump's family cryptocurrency venture.
  • Beyond his diplomatic efforts, Witkoff has been a significant political donor to Trump and played a role in the 2024 Republican National Convention and Trump's campaign.
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