Who is Trump's most trusted person to negotiate world peace?

Steve Witkoff has become one of the most influential actors in U.S. foreign policy under Donald Trump's second term. Although he has no formal diplomatic training, Witkoff was appointed Special Envoy for the Middle East in 2025 and quickly became the central figure in high-level negotiations with leaders from around the world. 

Founder of The Witkoff Group and known for his real estate investments, the businessman cultivated a close relationship with Trump for decades, based on personal trust, shared business interests, and unwavering loyalty. This relationship catapulted him onto the global stage as the lead negotiator in some of the world's most complex crises.

His direct style, independence from the bureaucratic apparatus, and ability to achieve concrete progress have earned him praise from Trump's inner circle. In his second term, Trump appointed Witkoff as U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East, a newly created position. 

Witkoff's achievements in the last six months. 

Witkoff was the main architect of a historic agreement in January 2025, when a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which included the exchange of 33 hostages for nearly 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, was finalized. He relied on a direct negotiating style and worked especially with Prime Minister Netanyahu. 

His role quickly expanded, as he also served as the main channel between the Trump administration and Russian President Vladimir Putin. In February 2025, he traveled to Moscow and successfully negotiated the release of American professorMarc Fogel, in a prisoner exchange. 

Meanwhile, Trump put him in charge of diplomatic efforts with Russia regarding the war in Ukraine, negotiations with Iran about its nuclear program, and other global conflicts.

In April, he publicly changed his stance on the agreement with Iran, demanding a total halt to its nuclear enrichment, the so-called "Trump deal," aligned with the presidential vision.

More recently, in August 2025, Witkoff traveled again to Moscow to negotiate a possible ceasefire in Ukraine before the deadline set by Trump. Although the meeting was described as "highly productive", no final agreement was reached and threats of sanctions continue.

Simultaneously, he traveled to Ibiza to meet with the Prime Minister of Qatar, discussing a diplomatic plan to solve the offensive in Gaza and free hostages.

What makes Witkoff a crucial figure for Trump

• Personal trust with Trump: He is one of the very few who maintained loyalty to the president. His professional, family, and personal closeness has earned him immense influence.
   
• "City-style" negotiation: He is described as a pragmatic, direct, and flexible negotiator, a kind of "velvet glove" combined with firmness when necessary. In agreements, he closed deals that veteran diplomats could not. 
   
• Operational autonomy and zero compensation: Witkoff receives no salaryand funds his travel with his own private resources, which gives him agility and avoids bureaucratic obstacles.
   
• Global network of relationships and financial influence: His business in the Gulf and relationships with leaders such as Netanyahu or authorities from Qatar provide him with privileged access.

Trump places his trust in Witkoff to lead peace negotiations due to a combination of personal loyalty, pragmatic vision, and tangible results. Their relationship goes back decades, and the businessman has proven to be one of the few allies who remained steadfast.

Trump values his direct negotiation style, typical of the business world, which has produced progress where traditional diplomats have failed.