WASHINGTON: In a strategic move, former U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed retired General Keith Kellogg as his special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. This decision underscores Trump’s focus on swiftly resolving the ongoing conflict, potentially by reconsidering U.S. military support to Ukraine, according to a report by Bloomberg.

Trump has long been critical of continued U.S. aid to Kyiv and has emphasized the need for a quick resolution to the war. “Together, we will secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH,” Trump shared on Truth Social, reaffirming his commitment to ending the conflict. “Keith was with me right from the beginning," he added.

Who is Keith Kellogg?
At 80, Keith Kellogg brings decades of experience in military and strategic advisory roles. A loyal Trump ally, Kellogg previously served as Vice President Mike Pence’s national security adviser and held other key positions in Trump’s administration.

Known for his pragmatic approach, Kellogg advocates blending diplomacy with strategic pressure. Through his association with the America First Policy Institute, Kellogg has suggested leveraging arms support to encourage Ukraine toward negotiations. His vision includes freezing the current battle lines, delaying Ukraine’s NATO membership, and using diplomatic tools to de-escalate tensions.

In a co-authored essay, Kellogg proposed offering Russia limited sanctions relief as a means to broker peace, highlighting his preference for diplomacy over prolonged conflict.

Criticism of Biden’s Strategy
Kellogg has been outspoken about President Joe Biden’s handling of the war. He has blamed Biden’s “chaotic foreign policy” for exacerbating the situation. Recent U.S. moves, including forgiving $5 billion of Ukrainian debt and supplying long-range missiles, have drawn mixed reactions.

“He’s actually given President Trump more leverage,” Kellogg remarked on Fox News, though he criticized Biden for delays in sending missile support.

Kellogg’s appointment aligns with a broader debate over the U.S.’s role in Ukraine. While Biden has increased aid, Trump and Kellogg advocate a strategy prioritizing diplomacy over military escalation. They warn against prolonged arms support leading to a stalemate and call for “bold diplomacy.”

Samuel Charap, a former State Department adviser, described Kellogg’s ideas as diplomatically driven rather than appeasing Russia. “It is not by any means a plan to kowtow,” Charap explained.

A Career Built on Service
Kellogg’s military career spans decades, starting with his service in Vietnam, where he earned honors for valor. After retiring in 2003, he transitioned to leadership roles in companies like Oracle and CACI International.

Expressing excitement about his new role, Kellogg recently posted on X, “It was the privilege of my life working for President Trump, and I look forward to securing peace through strength.”

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