Bloomberg reviewed and transcribed an Oct. 14, 2025 call between Steve Witkoff (Trump's special envoy) and Yuri Ushakov (Putin's top foreign policy adviser). The audio shows Witkoff coaching Ushakov on how Putin should pitch peace terms to Trump during their upcoming call. The leaked transcript provides direct evidence of US envoy helping Russia craft its messaging strategy.

Witkoff advised Ushakov to frame Russian demands in ways Trump would accept. The coaching session occurred before Trump and Putin's Oct. 16 call that preceded release of the controversial 28-point peace plan. Russia had written the original plan that US officials then presented to Ukraine. The transcript shows American envoy actively helping adversary prepare for negotiations.

Trump defended Witkoff aboard Air Force One Nov. 26, calling the coaching 'a standard thing.' Trump said envoys must 'sell Ukraine to Russia' and vice versa. He characterized helping Russia prepare its pitch as normal dealmaking. Trump hasn't heard the audio but said the characterization didn't concern him.

Critics said the transcript shows Witkoff carrying water for Russia rather than seeking balanced deal. The US special envoy was coaching America's adversary (Russia) against America's strategic partner (Ukraine). Trump dismissed concerns and sent Witkoff back to Moscow to finalize details. The pattern matches Trump's documented deference to Putin across both his terms.

Former Ambassador Bridget Brink warned the coaching undermines Ukrainian negotiating position. When US envoy helps Russia craft better arguments, Ukraine loses leverage. The leaked call explains why the initial 28-point plan heavily favored Moscow—American negotiator was actively assisting Russian talking points.

Witkoff has no foreign policy experience. Trump selected his longtime friend and real estate developer as chief negotiator. Critics questioned qualifications for high-stakes diplomacy. The leaked transcript validates concerns about Witkoff's go-it-alone style prioritizing Trump's relationship with Putin over Ukrainian sovereignty.