Goa, Oct. 22 -- US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff has drawn criticism for describing Russian President Vladimir Putin as a "humanitarian", despite Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.

Witkoff made the remarks on Wednesday during a meeting with Putin in Saint Petersburg, where he sought to secure the release of Stephen Hubbard, an American citizen who had been detained for years after his arrest in Ukraine.

Referring to Hubbard's release, Witkoff praised the Russian leader, saying, "You talk so much about my president, President Trump, being a humanitarian - you are a humanitarian also, sir, and I salute that."

He added, "I commend you, and I thank you again."

Witkoff's comments drew criticism in light of Russia's mil...