New York real estate tycoon Steven Witkoff, a longtime associate of former US President Donald Trump, is facing growing criticism over his business dealings with Russian President Vladimir Putin during Moscow's brutal invasion of Ukraine.
Controversial Connections Exposed
Witkoff, who partnered with Trump on several high-profile projects, has maintained close financial ties to Putin's inner circle even as Western nations imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia. The developer's continued Russian business relationships have drawn sharp condemnation from Ukrainian officials and US lawmakers.
Zelensky's Government Reacts
A senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told The Independent these connections represent "a slap in the face" to Ukraine as it fights for survival against Russian forces. "While Ukrainian civilians die, some Western businessmen still see profit in Putin's Russia," the official stated.
Trump Links Raise Eyebrows
Witkoff's relationship with Trump adds another layer of controversy. The two collaborated on multiple real estate ventures, including the failed Trump Tower Moscow project. Critics argue these ties demonstrate how some in Trump's orbit maintained questionable Russian connections even after Moscow's 2014 annexation of Crimea.
Business or Complicity?
Ethics experts warn that continued Western business dealings with Putin-linked entities indirectly fund Russia's war machine. "Every dollar flowing into Russia's economy helps sustain their military operations in Ukraine," explained a sanctions analyst at a Washington think tank.
The revelations come as US authorities increase scrutiny of Russian oligarchs' assets and Western enablers. Witkoff's firm hasn't responded to multiple requests for comment about its Russian operations.
