Trump’s envoy endured an eight-hour wait for a meeting with Putin

According to video evidence of his motorcade’s departure and return at Moscow’s Vnukovo Airport, his visit lasted just over 12 hours.

Throughout much of that period, it appears he was left in a state of anticipation.

Mr. Witkoff, once a prominent real estate magnate and now serving as Donald Trump’s leading negotiator, often dubbed the ‘fixer’ for the president, was sent to Moscow to present the United States’ proposal for a 30-day ceasefire to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

His visit was slated to take place early in the week, shortly after the US-Ukraine discussions in Saudi Arabia.

Upon his arrival around midday on Thursday, he faced a prolonged wait of approximately eight hours before being summoned for a meeting at the Kremlin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to prioritize a scheduled meeting with Belarusian President Aleksander Lukashenko, as the two leaders convened for a state visit that was unexpectedly announced just a day prior.

It remains uncertain whether the timing of Mr. Lukashenko’s visit was intentional; however, the circumstances strongly suggest that it was no mere coincidence.

The situation appeared to be a quintessential demonstration of President Vladimir Putin’s strategic maneuvering.

The leader of the Kremlin is known for his aversion to being compelled into a defensive position or receiving directives, particularly within his own domain.

The statement appeared to convey a message directed at Americans, asserting authority and independence by suggesting, “I am in charge, I determine the timetable, and I am not obligated to anyone.”

Eventually, after nightfall and in a private setting, he did provide Mr. Witkoff with that crucial face-to-face meeting.