Steve Witkoff's real job is to make the Trumps richer

From Simon Baker's LinkedIn:

"The Times article titled "Steve Witkoff's real job: make the world safer or make the Trumps richer?" delves into the dual roles of Steve Witkoff—a real estate mogul and longtime ally of President Donald Trump—as both a diplomatic envoy and a businessman with significant cryptocurrency interests. 

Key Points: 

Diplomatic Role: In early 2025, Witkoff was appointed as the U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, tasked with addressing complex issues such as the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as Iran's nuclear program. Despite some short-term successes, like facilitating the release of American prisoners, critics argue that his efforts have not led to lasting diplomatic solutions. Concerns have been raised about his qualifications, lack of formal diplomatic experience, and the use of Kremlin translators during negotiations. 

Business Ventures and Conflicts of Interest: Simultaneously, Witkoff co-founded World Liberty Financial (WLF), a cryptocurrency firm, alongside his sons and the Trump family. The company has attracted significant foreign investments, including a $2 billion partnership in the UAE. Despite claims of divestment, questions persist about potential conflicts of interest, especially given Witkoff's diplomatic engagements in regions where WLF is actively pursuing business deals. 

Criticism and Support: Within political circles, opinions on Witkoff are divided. Some administration insiders appreciate his loyalty and negotiation skills, while others express concern over the blending of diplomatic responsibilities with private business interests. Notably, even pro-Trump media outlets have questioned the appropriateness of his dual roles. 

Assessment: The article highlights the ethical complexities arising from Witkoff's simultaneous involvement in high-stakes diplomacy and private business ventures. The potential for conflicts of interest is evident, particularly when diplomatic decisions could influence, or be influenced by, private financial interests. While Witkoff's longstanding relationship with President Trump and his business acumen are acknowledged, the lack of clear boundaries between his public duties and private enterprises raises concerns about the integrity of U.S. foreign policy and the potential for personal enrichment at the expense of national interests."

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A little "back translation" from an article in UNIAN based on the Times article: 

"...Trump's ambassador-at-large is accompanied by one or two aides as he travels the world, using his real estate connections to meet with high-ranking officials.

Witkoff has been accused of letting Vladimir Putin play him and parroting Russian talking points. In one meeting with the Russian dictator, he was criticized for relying on a Kremlin interpreter. 

"He shows up to meet with Putin without an aide, he shows up to meet with the Iranians without an aide, he's not briefed - I mean, it's just crazy. But the responsibility lies with the president. I think any normal president would have already pulled this guy up and said, 'You're embarrassing my country,'" said an informal Trump foreign policy adviser... 

Meanwhile, Whitkoff’s son Zach, 32, is meeting with the same foreign governments his father is negotiating with. The younger Whitkoff is selling cryptocurrency that his family and the Trumps jointly own, which could give the president’s family hundreds of millions of dollars. 

This apparent conflict of interest has made the elder Witkoff enemies not only among his political opponents but also in Trump’s orbit. They accuse him of treachery and point out that Witkoff has yet to solve any of the problems entrusted to him. Yet Witkoff, 68, retains the support of most officials, as well as that of President Trump."