Vance supports Witkoff's comments on Putin's diplomacy

Vice President JD Vance supported Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's envoy, after he faced criticism for remarks about Russian President Vladimir Putin. Witkoff stated on a TV show that he "liked" Putin and did not view him as a "bad guy." Witkoff's comments sparked backlash from foreign policy experts. In response, Vance defended him on social media, praising Witkoff’s work and suggesting critics were upset that he succeeded where they had not for decades. Witkoff emphasized that effective diplomacy requires practical skills. He discussed his successful ceasefire negotiations between Gaza and Israel, stating that President Trump provided clear goals for his mission. During the interview, Witkoff expressed his belief in respectful negotiation. He noted that respect from Putin towards Trump was crucial and referred to Ukrainian President Zelensky's previous approach as detrimental to negotiations. Witkoff mentioned that issues in Ukraine regarding territory are complex and that Zelensky has acknowledged Ukraine’s unlikely NATO membership in any peace deal. He highlighted the importance of communication and expressed his belief that he had a straightforward discussion with Putin, underlining the need for dialogue in resolving the conflict.