CIA Director John Ratcliffe could be given a much bigger role in US negotiations with Russia and Ukraine, as Washington tries to revive a diplomatic process that has long been at a standstill. Financial Times.
American officials have already informed their European counterparts of the possible changes.
This is about Ratcliffe's increased involvement in the so-called "shuttle diplomacy" between Moscow and Kyiv. Currently, this area is mainly the responsibility of US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
The White House is considering reducing their participation in the talks, according to five sources familiar with the plans of US President Donald Trump's administration. However, the American leader has not yet made a final decision on the changes.
Ratcliffe's representatives have told European officials that the CIA chief will play a greater role in contacts between Russia and Ukraine, while maintaining ties with intelligence officials from both countries.
Ratcliffe’s increased role does not mean that Witkoff will completely abandon the Ukraine direction. According to FT sources, he will most likely retain his position as US special representative for peace missions, which also covers negotiations in the Middle East.
At the same time, Witkoff may continue to work on the Ukraine issue in parallel with Ratcliffe. According to the publication's interlocutors, a struggle has already erupted between them over who will play the leading role and on which issues.
European capitals have welcomed the possibility of Ratcliffe's enhanced role, with Ukraine's allies hoping for at least some progress after protracted talks with Russia that have stalled over Russian dictator Vladimir Putin's unwillingness to back down on his demands.
