A leaked phone conversation between senior officials from the United States and Russia has triggered major political uproar in Washington. Pressure is now building even from some Republicans for President Donald Trump to dismiss his presidential envoy Steve Witkoff, after he was heard advising Moscow on how to approach Trump.
Despite the controversy, Trump has defended Witkoff, calling him a dealmaker. As the scandal widely referred to as “Witi-Leaks” continues to grow, attention has shifted to identifying who leaked the highly sensitive audio.
What the Leaked Calls Contain
According to Bloomberg, two phone conversations were leaked. One was between Witkoff and Yuri Ushakov, the top foreign policy adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin. During an October 14 call, Witkoff appeared to guide Ushakov on how to frame a peace proposal for Trump. He reportedly suggested that a potential settlement would require Ukraine to give up Donetsk, one of the key regions claimed by Moscow, and possibly additional territory.
In the recording, Witkoff said, “Now, me to you, I know what it’s going to take to get a peace deal done: Donetsk and maybe a land swap somewhere.” He added that instead of discussing territory, they should speak “more hopefully” because “I think we’re going to get to a deal here.”
Witkoff also advised Ushakov to have Putin congratulate Trump on the Gaza peace deal between Israel and Hamas. He further recommended arranging a Trump-Putin phone call before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s scheduled visit to the White House.
The second leaked call involved Ushakov and Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s economic adviser and a key figure in peace negotiations. According to the transcript, Dmitriev said he would share the proposal informally:
“I’ll informally pass it along, making it clear that it’s all informal. And let them do like their own. Bloomberg said it had reviewed and transcribed the audio but did not reveal its source.
Who Leaked the Calls?
Ushakov confirmed on November 26 that the recordings appeared real, although he claimed some parts were fake. He called the leak of course unacceptable, saying his discussions with Witkoff were confidential.
Speculation over the source is widespread. Some believe the leak originated in the US; others suspect Russia or even Ukraine. Ushakov hinted that the calls may have been made via WhatsApp and therefore vulnerable:
He said “someone might somehow be able to listen” to such conversations.
Former CIA Moscow station chief Daniel Hoffman told The Guardian that the leak could be an attempt by someone in Russia to damage Witkoff’s reputation. Others argue the leak may have come from within the US. According to The Telegraph, even Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been mentioned as a possible suspect, though such a move could be risky if Trump found out.
A senior former US intelligence official told The Guardian the most likely source is an American agency:
They said only the CIA or NSA would likely have access to the audio, not just the transcript.
Another expert suggested a European intelligence service might have leaked the recordings in shock over Witkoff’s pro-Russia stance.
There is also speculation of internal Kremlin power struggles. The Telegraph noted that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who allegedly dislikes Dmitriev, may have played a role. Russian agencies have leaked sensitive political calls before, though analysts say they lack a clear motive this time.
Political Reactions in the US
Fallout in Washington has been intense. Representative Ted Lieu branded Witkoff an “actual traitor”, saying he should work for the US, not Russia. Republican Brian Fitzpatrick called the situation a “major problem”, urging an end to secretive negotiations.
Despite the criticism, Trump strongly defended Witkoff. He said, “He’s gotta sell this to Ukraine, he’s gotta sell Ukraine to Russia. That’s what a dealmaker does.” Commenting on the leaked audio, Trump added, “I haven’t heard it, but I heard it was standard negotiation.”
White House communications director Steven Cheung posted on X that there was “nothing wrong” with the conversation, saying it reflected what a negotiator must do. Meanwhile, US special missions envoy Richard Grenell demanded the leaker not Witkoff be fired, calling the person a national security risk.
Russia’s Response
Moscow has denied any involvement. Ushakov suggested the leaks were an attempt to disrupt ongoing Ukraine peace efforts, “It is unlikely that this is done to improve relations,” he said. He confirmed that he speaks with Witkoff regularly but declined to discuss the content. Asked who might be responsible, he added, “Someone is leaking, someone is listening, but not us.” Amid the uproar, Trump said Witkoff would travel to Russia next week, possibly accompanied by Jared Kushner. Ushakov also confirmed the planned visit.
Also Read: Is Italy Finally Recognizing Femicide as a Distinct Crime After Years of Violence Against Women?
