Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sent a letter to former President Donald Trump, apologizing for a tense exchange during their Oval Office meeting, according to Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. The letter aims to repair relations after what Witkoff described as a “regrettable” encounter.
Speaking on Fox News’s America’s Newsroom, Witkoff revealed that Zelensky’s letter was a diplomatic gesture to ease tensions. He noted that the Ukrainian leader acknowledged the meeting did not unfold as expected and took steps to address the fallout.
The Hill writes:
“Zelensky sent a letter to the president. He apologized for that whole incident that happened in the Oval Office,” Witkoff said Monday on Fox News’s “America’s Newsroom.”
“I think that it was an important step and there’s been a lot of discussion between our teams and the Ukrainians and the Europeans who are relevant to this discussion as well,” he added.
U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia this week to pick back up on peace negotiations to end the war with Russia.
Witkoff said he thought Zelensky sending Trump a letter to apologize for the fiery meeting was “progress.”
Trump later confirmed the letter’s receipt in a congressional address, calling it a sign of progress. The timing is critical, as it comes just days after the U.S. announced a suspension of military aid to Ukraine. The pause in assistance has added further strain to U.S.-Ukraine relations at a time when Kyiv remains locked in conflict with Russia.
Meanwhile, as Washington and Kyiv work to navigate diplomatic challenges, officials from both nations are preparing for crucial negotiations in Saudi Arabia. These discussions will focus on security issues, territorial stability, and rebuilding Ukraine’s infrastructure. Witkoff underscored the need for open dialogue, emphasizing that transparency is key to resolving outstanding concerns.
Despite the strained Oval Office exchange, Zelensky has expressed a commitment to continued diplomatic engagement.
[Read More: Big Liberal With Nothing Else To Do Runs For Governor]
