The Trump administration’s discussions with Russia to end the war in Ukraine now include a multibillion-dollar oil deal that would benefit Middle Eastern business executives tied to the lead U.S. negotiators, The New York Times reported.
According to the report, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and President Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, have been involved in conversations about the oil transaction.
The negotiations mark an expansion of the U.S. engagement with Russia over Ukraine, linking diplomatic efforts to a major commercial proposal in the global energy sector. The Times story raised questions about potential conflicts of interest because the deal could advantage business figures connected to the American negotiators.
Officials and aides involved in the talks have not publicly confirmed all details of the proposed deal, and it remains unclear what formal role, if any, the U.S. government would play in facilitating or endorsing the transaction. The discussions come amid broader, sensitive negotiations aimed at ending hostilities in Ukraine.
Critics say entwining big commercial interests with high-stakes diplomacy risks undermining the credibility and motives of U.S. envoys, while supporters argue commercially linked solutions might create incentives for durable agreements.
The New York Times report is the primary source for these developments.
Source: thehill.com
