Uncertainty grows in Ukraine ahead of Trump’s rep visit

As 2025 unfolds, morale is arguably at its lowest point in the war, compounded by the looming prospect of Donald Trump’s presidency.

Trump has stated that ending the war is one of his primary international goals, and has appointed retired US general Keith Kellogg as his special envoy to tackle this issue, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Kellogg, a seasoned veteran, is expected to arrive in Kyiv soon, and his presence is seen as a more favorable option for Ukraine compared to other figures in Trump’s circle who have clear pro-Russian views. Having visited Ukraine during the war, Kellogg has witnessed the impact of Russia’s actions firsthand. Ukrainian officials believe these visits have often played a significant role in shifting the perspectives of Western politicians on the conflict.

Before his appointment, Kellogg had proposed a strategy of threatening to cut off arms supplies to Ukraine if it refused to engage in negotiations with Russia, while increasing them if Russia did not comply. Recently, he has condemned Russia’s attacks on Ukraine but has also criticized Ukraine for actions such as the assassination of a Russian general in Moscow.

After condemning a Russian attack on Ukrainian cities over Christmas, Kellogg wrote on X, “The world is closely watching actions on both sides.” This comparison, suggesting a balanced conflict between two parties with equal responsibility, has raised concerns in Kyiv and other allied capitals. 

They view it as an unfair portrayal of Russia's brutal invasion of a sovereign nation. Kellogg explained in a recent TV interview, “Think of a cage fight. You’ve got two fighters and both want to tap out. You need a referee to kind of separate them. And I think President Donald J Trump can do that – he’s got a vision to do that.”

By Naila Huseynova