Donald Trump has appointed retired General Keith Kellogg as his special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, marking a significant move toward his goal of swiftly ending the war in Ukraine. Kellogg, a seasoned adviser, has been a long-time critic of continued U.S. military support for Ukraine. He is expected to help implement Trump’s strategy of potentially halting military aid to Kyiv to pressure Russia into negotiations.
Kellogg’s Role in Trump’s Foreign Policy Vision
At 80 years old, Kellogg brings decades of experience, having served as Vice President Pence’s national security adviser. Additionally, he joined Trump’s administration, where his influence grew in foreign policy. Kellogg has long advocated for pressuring Ukraine into negotiations with Russia by suspending arms shipments. However, he believes support for Ukraine should persist if it engages diplomatically. This approach, he argues, would allow Ukraine to negotiate from a stronger position.
Kellogg’s Proposed Strategy for Ukraine-Russia Negotiations
Kellogg envisions a potential resolution, including freezing current front lines and creating a demilitarized zone. Moreover, he proposes delaying Ukraine’s NATO membership discussions for an extended period. Additionally, Kellogg suggests offering limited sanctions relief to Russia as part of a diplomatic deal. These ideas are outlined in a recent article he co-authored for the America First Policy Institute, founded by former Trump officials.
Biden’s Response: Increasing Aid to Ukraine
In response, President Joe Biden has increased aid to Ukraine, including authorizing Kyiv to strike deeper into Russian territory and forgiving nearly $5 billion in debt. While Biden’s approach contrasts with Trump’s, his administration argues that their actions also aim for a quicker resolution by enhancing Ukraine’s negotiating position.
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Kellogg’s Critique of Biden’s Ukraine Policy
Kellogg has criticized President Biden’s handling of the Ukraine conflict, blaming the war on Biden’s foreign policy. He believes that Biden’s support for Ukraine, particularly the recent approval of U.S.-made missiles, has given Trump more leverage in resolving the conflict. “He’s actually given President Trump more leverage,” Kellogg remarked, also emphasizing the delay in allowing the missiles to be used earlier in the conflict.
Kellogg’s Leadership in Trump’s First Administration
Kellogg’s previous roles within the Trump administration, particularly during the presidential transition, have made him a loyal and influential figure. As executive secretary and chief of staff to the National Security Council, he was a constant presence through numerous shifts in the White House’s national security team.
The America First Approach to Diplomacy
At the America First Policy Institute, General Keith Kellogg contributed to a book on bold diplomacy for Ukraine. He advocates ending Russia’s war through decisive action and strategic diplomacy. Kellogg criticizes the Biden administration’s approach, which he sees as too cautious. He believes the current policies have led the U.S. into a prolonged and costly conflict.
Trump’s Continued Engagement with Ukraine’s Leadership
Earlier this month, Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signaling his continued engagement with Ukraine. Despite differing approaches, Trump remains involved in Ukraine’s matters. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has denied claims of a post-election conversation. Both sides continue to maintain different narratives about Trump’s interactions with Russia.
A Shifting U.S. Strategy on Ukraine
Kellogg’s appointment highlights the divergence in U.S. strategies toward the Ukraine conflict, with Trump advocating for diplomacy and Biden continuing to provide military support. The future of U.S. involvement in Ukraine remains uncertain, but Kellogg’s role will be pivotal in shaping Trump’s policy should he take office.