US President Donald Trump reported that one of his special envoy Steve Witkoff's meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin lasted five hours, although it was originally planned for 15-20 minutes. The American leader made this statement while speaking to the Knesset, Israel's parliament.

Trump said that half an hour after the talks began, he called to find out if the meeting was over, but was told that the talks were ongoing. He received a similar response an hour, two hours, and three hours later.

"And only five hours later did he come out. I asked, 'What did you talk about for five hours?'" the president recounted.

Trump added that Whitkoff replied that he had discussed many interesting things with Putin.

The head of the White House praised the abilities of his representative, noting his talent as a negotiator.

On September 3, Putin praised the work of the US President's special envoy. He emphasized that Whitkoff accurately conveys the American leader's position and conducts the dialogue in a constructive manner. Putin and Whitkoff met in the Kremlin on August 6. The talks were held behind closed doors. It was reported that Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov was also present.