In a bold move that could reshape the Ukraine conflict, Donald Trump appoints a decorated military veteran as his special envoy, promising to bring the war to a swift end.
At a Glance
- Trump nominates retired Gen. Keith Kellogg as special envoy for Ukraine and Russia
- Kellogg co-authored a policy paper proposing a ceasefire in Ukraine
- The appointment aims to blend military strategy with diplomatic finesse
- Trump claims he can stop the war and criticizes U.S. aid to Ukraine
- The move signals a potential shift in U.S. approach to the Ukraine conflict
A Strategic Appointment
President-elect Donald Trump has made a significant move in his approach to the ongoing Ukraine conflict by appointing retired Gen. Keith Kellogg as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. This strategic nomination brings a blend of military expertise and diplomatic experience to the forefront of U.S. efforts to resolve the protracted war.
Kellogg’s distinguished career includes serving as Chief of Staff and Executive Secretary to the National Security Council during Trump’s first administration. His appointment underscores Trump’s commitment to a “PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH” strategy, leveraging Kellogg’s extensive military background and national security experience to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape.
Donald Trump nominated the retired general to lead negotiations for ending the war started by Russian President Vladimir Putin. https://t.co/CnRSbzV4gX
— Newsweek (@Newsweek) November 28, 2024
A New Approach to Peace
The nomination of Kellogg signals a potential shift in the U.S. approach to the Ukraine conflict. Kellogg co-authored a policy paper proposing a ceasefire in Ukraine, suggesting that U.S. military aid be conditioned on Ukraine’s participation in peace talks with Russia. This stance aligns with Trump’s criticism of the current administration’s handling of the conflict and the amount of U.S. aid provided to Ukraine.
“I’m the only one who can get the war stopped. It should have never started in the first place,” Trump said.
Trump’s assertion that he can end the war quickly has drawn both support and skepticism. His approach emphasizes diplomatic negotiations and a reassessment of U.S. aid, suggesting that European nations should contribute more to Ukraine’s defense. This stance reflects a broader shift in Republican foreign policy thinking, with figures like vice president-elect JD Vance also advocating for peace talks and a reevaluation of U.S. aid to Ukraine.
Kellogg’s Vision for Peace
As the newly appointed special envoy, Kellogg brings a pragmatic approach to conflict resolution. During his time as Co-Chairman of the Center for American Security at the America First Policy Institute, Kellogg criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the Ukraine conflict, describing it as an “avoidable crisis.” His proposed strategy involves seeking a cease-fire and negotiated settlement to end the war.
Kellogg’s approach acknowledges the challenges of ending the war while Vladimir Putin remains in power. He suggests that Ukraine should use diplomacy to regain its territory, a stance that may face resistance from Ukrainian leadership.
Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy
The appointment of Kellogg as special envoy represents a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy towards the Ukraine conflict. It reflects Trump’s campaign promise to prioritize American interests and pursue a more assertive approach to international negotiations. This move could potentially reshape the dynamics of U.S. involvement in the region and influence NATO allies’ strategies.
“Every time Zelenskyy comes to the United States, he walks away with $100 billion. I think he’s the greatest salesman on Earth. But we’re stuck in that war — unless I’m president. I’ll get it done. I’ll get it negotiated,” Trump stated in September.
