Trump moves to give CIA director a bigger role in Ukraine peace talks, FT reports
Photo: US CIA Director John Ratcliffe (Getty Images)
CIA Director John Ratcliffe may take on a significantly larger role in US negotiations with Russia and Ukraine. Washington is seeking to reinvigorate a diplomatic process that has been deadlocked for a prolonged period, according to the Financial Times.
American officials have already informed their European counterparts about possible changes.
The changes would involve expanding Ratcliffe’s role in so-called "shuttle diplomacy" between Moscow and Kyiv. For now, this area is handled primarily by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
According to five sources familiar with the plans of US President Donald Trump’s administration, the White House is considering reducing their involvement in the negotiations. However, the US president has not yet made a final decision on the changes.
Representatives of Ratcliffe have told European officials that the CIA director will play a larger role in contacts between Russia and Ukraine. At the same time, he will maintain ties with intelligence officials from both countries.
What will happen to Witkoff
Ratcliffe taking on a larger role does not mean Witkoff will completely leave the Ukraine track. According to FT sources, he is likely to retain his position as US special envoy for peace missions, which also covers negotiations in the Middle East.
At the same time, Witkoff may continue working on Ukraine alongside Ratcliffe. According to the newspaper’s sources, a rivalry has already emerged between the two over who will take the lead and on which issues.
European capitals have reacted positively to the possibility of Ratcliffe taking on a larger role. Ukraine’s allies expect at least some progress after lengthy negotiations with Russia became deadlocked due to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s unwillingness to abandon his demands.
In addition, sources familiar with the matter previously told RBC-Ukraine that Ratcliffe is one of the most pro-Ukraine officials in the Trump administration.
