WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he intends to appoint General Keith Kellogg as assistant to the president and as special envoy for Ukraine and Russia.
Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general, has been a close defense adviser to Trump and previously served as the National Security Advisor under former Vice President Mike Pence. Trump’s announcement came via his Truth Social account, where he expressed confidence in Kellogg’s ability to lead efforts in achieving peace. “He was with me right from the beginning! Together, we will secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, and Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN!” Trump stated.
This nomination arrives as the conflict stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches its third year in February. Trump has vocalized his disapproval of the significant financial aid the Biden administration has extended to Ukraine, criticizing the billions allocated in military support and loan forgiveness by Washington to Kyiv. In previous remarks, the incoming Republican president asserted that he could resolve the conflict within a day, which has raised speculation regarding his willingness to encourage Ukraine to concede territory currently held by Russia.
In April, Kellogg wrote for the America First Policy Institute, an organization formed post-Trump’s presidency to provide support for the next Republican administration. He emphasized that a decisive and America First approach would be essential for achieving a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war, advocating for strong leadership to initiate a ceasefire and bring an end to the ongoing hostilities between the involved nations.
