How the U.S. Drafted a Russia-Friendly Peace Plan for Ukraine

A leaked recording reveals that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff advised Kremlin officials on how to effectively communicate a peace proposal regarding Ukraine to President Trump. This interaction raises questions about Witkoff's loyalties and the potential influence of the Kremlin on U.S. foreign policy.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation from Congress, effective January 5, 2026, citing a breakdown in loyalty with former President Donald Trump and the Republican Party. This decision has raised eyebrows within political circles, with former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy labeling her exit as a potential indicator of deeper issues within the Republican Party.

South African police are investigating allegations that Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, has been involved in recruiting men to fight alongside Russian mercenaries in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The investigation follows claims that she promised paramilitary training to potential recruits.

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff reportedly advised a senior Kremlin official on strategies to communicate a peace proposal regarding Ukraine to President Trump, suggesting that Russia should gain control of Donetsk and consider territorial exchanges. This conversation was recorded and has raised significant attention regarding U.S.-Russia diplomatic interactions.

US Envoy Steve Witkoff provided coaching to a senior aide of Vladimir Putin on how to present a peace plan to President Trump regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as revealed by a transcript of a call from October 14. The White House has not disputed the authenticity of this transcript, which indicates a potential shift in diplomatic strategies surrounding the war.

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has been appointed by President Trump as a key negotiator in the administration's efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This appointment comes as Ukraine has expressed its willingness to sign a U.S.-drafted peace deal, indicating a potential shift towards ending the war.

France is set to revive military conscription in a new voluntary format as part of efforts to strengthen national defense amid rising security concerns, particularly regarding Russia. This initiative aims to attract young volunteers for military service, reflecting a shift from the traditional model of mandatory conscription that has been dormant for years.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has cautioned against the unilateral division of Ukraine amid ongoing US-led negotiations to resolve the conflict. She emphasized that undermining Ukraine's sovereignty could lead to further wars, highlighting Russia's persistent unwillingness to genuinely end hostilities.