Trump’s envoys Witkoff and Kushner plan visits to Kyiv, Moscow

Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, two of President Donald Trump’s most prominent foreign policy envoys, are planning trips to both Kyiv and Moscow within the coming days. The dual visits represent a notable shift in diplomatic choreography for an administration that has, until now, focused its shuttle diplomacy almost exclusively on the Moscow side of the equation.

The Kyiv leg of the trip would be particularly significant. Neither Witkoff nor Kushner has set foot in Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion. Witkoff, by contrast, has made at least eight trips to Moscow during that same period.

What’s driving the trip

The planned visits follow a meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on July 28. Ukrainian sources described those discussions as “very practical,” with a focus on revitalizing diplomatic efforts amid stalled peace negotiations.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has confirmed the envoys’ expected arrival in Kyiv. The trip is being planned for the second half of August, which raises the possibility it could coincide with Ukraine’s Independence Day on August 24.

Former US Special Representative for Ukraine Kurt Volker has noted that the trip could provide Witkoff and Kushner with valuable firsthand insights into Ukraine’s situation on the ground.

The Moscow track record

Witkoff’s extensive travel to Moscow has been one of the defining features of the Trump administration’s approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. His visits there have included meetings with President Vladimir Putin and discussions with Russian investors, covering topics ranging from potential ceasefire frameworks to sanctions-related issues.

The volume of those Moscow trips, at least eight since the full-scale invasion began, drew criticism from some quarters who argued the administration was telegraphing a tilt toward Russia’s position. A subsequent trip to Moscow is anticipated after the Kyiv visit.

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