President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he would nominate retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg to serve as Assistant to the President and Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia.
Kellogg, a longtime advisor to Trump on defense matters, previously served as National Security Advisor to former Vice President Mike Pence.
Trump made the announcement via his Truth Social account, praising Kellogg’s loyalty and expertise. “He was with me right from the beginning! Together, we will secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, and Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN!” Trump wrote.
Kellogg’s nomination comes as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches its third anniversary. The United States, under the Biden administration, has provided extensive military and financial support to Ukraine, including billions in weapons and loan forgiveness. However, Trump has frequently criticized the Biden administration’s approach, calling the financial aid excessive. In past statements, Trump, who has described Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “genius,” has claimed that he could bring an end to the war within 24 hours, though his comments have led to speculation that his strategy might involve pressuring Ukraine to concede territory to Russia.
As Special Envoy, Kellogg’s role will focus on managing the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with an emphasis on diplomacy and military strategy as tensions continue to escalate.
