Zelensky Criticizes US Envoys' Lack of Visits to Kyiv

Wed Apr 22 2026 11:46:29 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed discontent over US envoys visiting Moscow but not Kyiv, deeming it 'disrespectful'. This reflects ongoing frustrations amid the war in Ukraine and the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly criticized US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for visiting Moscow multiple times while neglecting to visit Kyiv, labeling their actions as 'disrespectful'. Zelensky emphasized that despite complexities with logistics, direct engagement with Ukraine remains vital, especially as discussions around a ceasefire intensify amid the ongoing war with Russia. The geopolitical context of US focus on the Middle East, particularly in relation to Iran, further complicates US diplomatic efforts in Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed his discontent over US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner visiting Moscow without making an official trip to Kyiv, calling the decision 'disrespectful'.

The two representatives traveled to the Russian capital late last year as ceasefire discussions regarding the Ukraine conflict gained momentum, with Witkoff reportedly meeting President Vladimir Putin numerous times, while having never made an official visit to Kyiv.

Zelensky stated, 'It's disrespectful [for them] to come to Moscow and not Kyiv, it's just disrespectful.' He acknowledged the logistical complexities involved and suggested that if necessary, meetings could take place in other countries.

Witkoff, a former real estate mogul and special envoy under Donald Trump, along with Kushner, have been part of US negotiations in Pakistan aimed at ceasefire talks with Iran. Zelensky admitted that the current focus of the US is largely directed towards the Middle East, which has impacted its involvement in Ukraine.

Despite earlier plans for a potential trip to Ukraine by the envoys, those plans were derailed, coinciding with the US and Israel's military actions against Iran.

The last trilateral summit held between Russia, the US, and Ukraine occurred in mid-February, before the US-Iran conflict shifted focus away from the Ukraine war, which has persisted for over four years. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant territorial control by Russian forces in Eastern Ukraine, while Ukraine continues to urge for involvement in ceasefire negotiations.

Zelensky underlined the importance of continued US cooperation, stating, 'for us it is important to continue cooperating with the Americans.'

As efforts to negotiate peace continue, there remains a crucial deadlock over key issues, including the status of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region, with neither party willing to concede on critical demands.