President-elect Donald J. Trump has appointed retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg as special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, entrusting him with the mission to facilitate peace negotiations amid the ongoing conflict. Kellogg, who previously served as chief of staff to the White House National Security Council and as national security advisor to former Vice President Mike Pence during Trump’s first term, has been commended by Trump for his unwavering support and distinguished military and business career.
In his new role, Kellogg is expected to spearhead diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the war in Ukraine, contingent upon the willingness of both Russia and Ukraine to engage in negotiations.
BBC News reports:
Kellogg has advocated for tough negotiations with Russia and Ukraine in order to bring the war to an end.
Great to be with @johnrobertsFox @GillianHTurner @AmericaNewsroom on critical issues in the war in Ukraine. When it comes to international issues to be worked and solved by President-elect Trump, this war is the wolf closest to the sled. pic.twitter.com/QzFHktodnc
— Keith Kellogg (@generalkellogg) November 22, 2024
Kellogg’s ideas for how to do this have been outlined in a research paper published by the America First Policy Institute, a pro-Trump think thank.
In the document, published in April, Kellogg advocated for “a formal US policy to seek a ceasefire and negotiated settlement of the Ukraine conflict”.
He proposed that Ukraine would only get further US aid if Kyiv participated in peace talks with Moscow, but also suggested that if Moscow refused to take part, Washington would then give Kyiv more aid.
The Russo-Ukrainian conflict, which began in 2014, has escalated into a protracted and devastating war following Russia’s all-out invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022. As of mid-September 2024, estimates indicate up to 1,000,000 casualties, encompassing both military personnel and civilians on both sides.
The situation has been characterized by intense fighting, significant territorial disputes and substantial humanitarian crises, with Russia occupying roughly 20% of Ukraine, yet neither side has achieved a decisive victory.
Following the announcement, Kellogg expressed his gratitude on X, stating, “I am honored by @realDonaldTrump’s appointment to serve as Assistant to the President and Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia. It was the privilege of my life working for President Trump, and I look forward to working tirelessly to secure peace through strength while upholding America’s interests. I am ready with the commitment and dedication it deserves.”
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