Trump Leans on Son-in-Law Jared Kushner for Challenging Diplomacy
Jared Kushner, with his wife Ivanka Trump, acknowledges applause at the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, in Jerusalem, October 13, 2025.
Introduction
As President Donald Trump embarks on his second term, he is increasingly turning to his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, for assistance in critical diplomatic negotiations. Kushner, who initially stepped back to focus on personal business ventures, is now playing a pivotal role in addressing some of the most challenging international crises.
Kushner’s Revitalized Role in Diplomacy
Nearly a year into Trump’s second administration, Kushner has re-entered the diplomatic arena, significantly influencing delicate peace processes:
– Collaborative Approach: Kushner’s involvement complements the solo efforts of special envoy Steve Witkoff, who had limited government experience prior to his current role.
– Experienced Negotiator: Trump’s inner circle believes Kushner’s previous diplomatic experience helps bridge gaps and resolve complex differences, as noted by several current and former administration officials.
Recently, Kushner and Witkoff facilitated talks with Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev in Miami, aiming to address proposals to end Russia’s war in Ukraine while also engaging with Turkish and Qatari officials regarding the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Contrasting Styles: Kushner vs. Witkoff
Kushner and Witkoff’s differing approaches stand out:
– Witkoff’s Boldness: A close associate of Trump’s, Worff is seen as an energetic figure, often publicly supporting the president’s foreign policy initiatives.
– Kushner’s Credibility: Despite having his own business interests, Kushner is viewed as a more reliable negotiator, particularly by Ukrainian and European representatives who have expressed concerns about Witkoff’s deference to Russian interests.
Ian Kelly, a retired diplomat and former U.S. ambassador, remarked that Kushner has a more established track record from the previous administration, although his effectiveness remains under scrutiny.
Trust and Expertise in High-Stakes Negotiations
Kushner is viewed as a trusted family advisor, recognized by Trump for his key role in accomplishments like the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations.
– Support from Officials: White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly emphasized that both Trump and Witkoff often seek Kushner’s insights due to his negotiation experience.
– High Praise: State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott referred to Kushner as a world-class negotiator, appreciating his willingness to assist in resolving complex international challenges.
Scrutiny of Business Ties
While Kushner’s involvement is notable, skepticism persists concerning his business ties:
– Concerns Over Conflicts of Interest: Critics highlight the potential conflicts due to Kushner’s financial dealings in the Middle East, specifically investments from Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
– Witkoff’s Ties: Likewise, Witkoff’s substantial business connections to Gulf nations, including a partnership in a cryptocurrency venture backed by a United Arab Emirates fund, have raised eyebrows.
Kushner argues that what some call conflicts of interest are actually valuable experience and relationships that facilitate trust in negotiations.
Transitioning from Businessman to Diplomat
Initially, Kushner maintained a low profile, supporting the new Trump administration informally while resisting direct involvement. However, as the president’s efforts to bring peace to Gaza stumbled, Kushner stepped back into the fray:
– Ceasefire Negotiation: Kushner applied his experience from the Abraham Accords to negotiate a 20-point ceasefire plan, which is still being developed with his team.
– Temporary Commitment: Following the conclusion of the Gaza plan, Kushner humorously noted his return to family life, indicating his diplomatic role was not intended to be permanent.
Looking Ahead: Continued Involvement in Diplomacy
Despite a brief withdrawal, Kushner has swiftly transitioned back to play a vital role in Russia-Ukraine negotiations, with the complexities of the situation proving challenging:
– Persistent Deadlocks: Trump continues to lean on Kushner during critical negotiations, highlighting his resourcefulness and expertise in the diplomatic landscape.
In conclusion, as Trump relies on Jared Kushner for navigating difficult diplomatic waters, the interplay of personal and professional interests continues to shape international relations. Kushner’s journey from businessman to diplomat reveals a significant evolution in his role, showcasing the importance of experience and trust in achieving diplomatic success.