Trump narrows Keith Kellogg’s role to Special Envoy to Ukraine, ending his involvement with Russia

President Trump has made a significant announcement regarding the role of retired Gen. Keith Kellogg in Ukraine. Kellogg, who was initially appointed as Trump’s Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, will now be focusing solely on Ukraine, excluding his involvement with Russia as previously planned.

In a post on Truth Social, President Trump shared the news that General Keith Kellogg has been appointed as the Special Envoy to Ukraine. Trump highlighted Kellogg’s expertise in military matters and his strong working relationship with President Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian leadership. The decision to narrow Kellogg’s role to focus solely on Ukraine comes after he was recently sidelined from top-level peace talks, including negotiations in Saudi Arabia where a proposed 30-day ceasefire was discussed.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s rejection of the ceasefire deal and his demands for the West to stop arming Kyiv further underscored the need for a dedicated envoy to focus on Ukraine. Kellogg expressed his gratitude for the appointment, emphasizing his commitment to ending the war and advancing the interests of the United States.

Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general, has been vocal about the need for the US to use military aid to Ukraine as leverage in peace talks with Russia. In a research paper co-authored last April, Kellogg called for a formal US policy to bring the conflict in Ukraine to a conclusion. This policy would involve seeking a ceasefire and negotiated settlement, while continuing to support Ukraine’s defenses to deter further Russian aggression.

Throughout Trump’s first term, Kellogg served in various positions, including as national security adviser to then-Vice President Mike Pence. With his wealth of experience and expertise in military matters, Kellogg’s appointment as Special Envoy to Ukraine signifies a focused effort to address the ongoing conflict in the region.

The decision to narrow Kellogg’s role to focus solely on Ukraine reflects the importance of dedicated attention to the situation in the country. As the conflict continues to escalate, Kellogg’s appointment underscores the administration’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution and advancing the interests of the United States in the region.