Trump announces special envoy to lead Ukraine-Russia peace efforts

US President-elect Donald Trump has named retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, a former national security adviser, as his special envoy to Ukraine and Russia.

If confirmed, Kellogg will likely lead negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine—a top priority Trump has pledged to address on his first day back in office, though specifics of his plan remain unclear, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Kellogg, who has consistently advocated for tough diplomacy, outlined his approach in a paper published by the America First Policy Institute. Co-authored with Fred Fleitz, the document suggests conditioning further U.S. aid to Ukraine on its participation in peace talks and delaying Ukraine’s NATO membership as part of a potential settlement. The paper also calls for creating a long-term security framework for Ukraine.

While Trump has yet to formally endorse Kellogg’s plan, the retired general has briefed the president-elect, noting that Trump provided constructive feedback without fully committing to its proposals.

Diplomatic moves are already underway. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Trump recently held a 30-minute call described as cordial but not substantive. Meanwhile, Trump reportedly urged Russian President Vladimir Putin during a separate call to avoid escalating the conflict and highlighted the U.S.’s strong military presence in Europe.

Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba praised Trump’s approach to the conflict, stating the president-elect’s strategy demonstrates leadership by emphasizing goals without delving into transactional details. The Kremlin also welcomed Trump’s claim that he could end the war within 24 hours but noted it awaits further details on his policies.

As the United States remains Ukraine’s largest source of military aid, Kellogg’s Senate confirmation could shape the next phase of U.S. involvement in the region. With both Kyiv and Moscow signaling cautious optimism, all eyes are now on Washington to see how Trump’s administration navigates the complex path to peace.

By Khagan Isayev