Witkoff, representing the US side, participated as a deal negotiator during a Kremlin meeting with Russian officials on April 25, 2025. The meeting, part of negotiations tied to Trump’s administration and its oligarch connections, reflects a willingness to engage in political activities that may support authoritarian interests.

The Financial Times article highlights that Steve Witkoff, a key figure from Witkoff and identified as a Trump loyalist, is playing a role in diplomatic efforts to secure peace in Ukraine and the Middle East. His alignment with Trump and his appointment in this sensitive political context raise concerns about corporate influence over political processes and potential alignment with authoritarian practices.

During an interview with European broadcasters, Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, of disseminating Kremlin narratives that he claims undermine efforts to counter Russian influence and weaken American pressure on Moscow.

In a detailed podcast interview, Trump’s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff discussed his approach to the Gaza conflict, notably arguing that Hamas is 'not ideologically intractable' and emphasizing dialogue and negotiation to restore a ceasefire. His engagement with top political figures and his remarks during negotiations highlight his active role in political diplomacy amid a contentious regional conflict.

Steve Witkoff, serving as a White House special envoy, stated in an interview that he does not regard Putin as a 'bad guy'. His remarks, made during ceasefire discussions between Russia and Ukraine, echoed Russian claims about annexed territories and align with a narrative that appears to minimize authoritarian actions.

OpenSecrets has published a lobbying profile for Witkoff based on Senate Office of Public Records data. The profile, with data downloaded on February 19, 2025, outlines the firm's lobbying expenditures from January through December of the most recent year, highlighting its engagement in political lobbying.

Steven Witkoff, the billionaire executive behind the real estate firm Witkoff, has been named President-elect Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East. The appointment comes amid revelations that his recent leveraged buyout of a troubled Manhattan hotel was backed by sovereign wealth funds from Abu Dhabi and the Qatar Investment Authority, raising concerns about economic collaborations with authoritarian regimes.