KYIV, Ukraine — Keith Kellogg, the U.S. special envoy focused on Ukraine and Russia, arrived in Kyiv on Wednesday for discussions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and military leaders, marking a shift in U.S. policy after years of attempts to isolate Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Kellogg’s visit came one day after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that the blame for the ongoing conflict lies with Kyiv itself as the war nears its fourth anniversary next week. The U.S. discussions between senior American and Russian diplomats held in Saudi Arabia seemed to dim the role of Ukraine and its European allies.
Trump’s remarks may frustrate Ukrainian officials who have continuously sought global assistance to combat Russia’s large-scale invasion, which commenced on February 24, 2022.
In recent months, the battlefield situation has been challenging for Ukraine, with Russia’s larger military launching persistent attacks in eastern regions, forcing Ukrainian forces into a slow retreat at multiple points along the extensive 1,000-kilometer (approximately 600-mile) front line.
During an address to reporters at his Florida home on Tuesday, Trump stated that Ukraine “should have never started” the war and indicated that “a deal” could have been reached to avoid the current situation.
Kellogg emphasized that his visit presents an opportunity for meaningful discussions. President Zelenskyy opted to cancel his intended trip to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, which some analysts interpreted as a strategy to delegitimize the U.S.-Russia negotiations concerning Ukraine’s future.
American officials have hinted that Ukraine’s aspirations for NATO membership, intended to counter Russian threats following a potential peace deal, are unlikely to be realized. Zelenskyy asserts that any resolution will necessitate U.S. security guarantees to deter Russian aggression.
“We recognize the importance of security assurances,” Kellogg commented upon his arrival at the Kyiv train station, as reported by the Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne Novyny.
He further added, “It’s evident to us how crucial this nation’s sovereignty and independence are. … A part of my mission is to listen attentively.” The retired three-star general mentioned that he plans to relay insights from his trip to Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to ensure alignment on Ukraine’s needs.
