Witkoff and Kushner lack clear mandate, track record

U.S. President Donald Trump's foreign policy envoys, Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, lack a clear mandate and a proven track record in international negotiations, according to Ukrainian political scientist Maksym Nesvitaylov. Speaking on Aug. 5, Nesvitaylov stated that these special envoys are essentially overseers appointed by Trump, individuals with uncertain experience and unclear powers.

He explained that while the United States has a clearly defined Secretary of State and ambassadors in various countries, Witkoff and Kushner's roles and authorities remain ambiguous. The political scientist noted that there is no evidence of successful agreements achieved by the envoys throughout Trump's second term, as they continue to represent the President in international talks.

Furthermore, Nesvitaylov mentioned that the diplomatic efforts undertaken by Witkoff and Kushner have failed, but they persist in their representation of Trump due to the current political climate. It has been reported that the duo is likely to visit Kyiv in the second half of August during events commemorating Ukraine's 35th anniversary of independence.