UK Rejects Witkoff’s Characterization of Putin as ‘Humanitarian’

The UK government rejected U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff’s description of Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “humanitarian.” Scotland Secretary Douglas Alexander said Britain views Putin as responsible for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and for actions by his government that included attempted assassinations on UK soil. Witkoff made the remark during a meeting with Putin in St. Petersburg, after Russia agreed in principle to resume peace talks. The UK said any settlement must include security guarantees for Ukraine and prevent renewed conflict in Europe.