2024-11-28 09:09:00
President-elect Donald Trump announced Wednesday the creation of a special envoy for the Russian-Ukrainian conflict for former Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg. This Vietnam War veteran, who served as Mike Pence’s national security adviser, is a trusted figure for Trump.
“I am very pleased to appoint General Keith Kellogg as Assistant to the President and Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia. He’s been with me since the beginning! Together we will achieve peace through strength and make America and the world safe again! “wrote Donald Trump on Truth Social.
A mission to end the conflict
Very critical of the billions of dollars allocated by the United States to support Ukraine, Donald Trump has promised to resolve the war between Kiev and Moscow even before taking office in January 2025. Although he has not detailed his plan, the nomination by Keith Kellogg suggests a different approach than that of the Biden administration.
In fact, second Fox NewsKeith Kellogg co-wrote a strategy note last April that offers insights into his vision. He explained that American military aid should be conditional on Ukraine’s participation in negotiations with Russia. Then he talked about suspending Ukraine’s NATO membership for a long period to encourage Vladimir Putin to engage in peace talks.
The same philosophy as Donald Trump
Keith Kellogg shares Donald Trump’s philosophy of “peace through strength”, but has also expressed concern about escalating international tensions. “We are on the brink of World War III,” he recently warned, underlining the urgency of a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
Find our file on the war in Ukraine
Little known to the general public, Keith Kellogg briefly headed the National Security Council at the White House during Donald Trump’s first term. He currently serves as co-chair of the Center for American Security at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), an influential think tank within the Trumpist movement.
What are the main challenges facing General Keith Kellogg as the Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and General Keith Kellogg, Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, General Kellogg. Thank you for joining us today. As the newly appointed Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, how do you feel about the responsibilities that lie ahead of you?
Keith Kellogg: Thank you for having me. It’s an honor to serve in this capacity. The conflict in Ukraine has far-reaching implications not only for the country itself but also for global stability. I take this role very seriously and aim to bring about a meaningful resolution.
Time.news Editor: President-elect Trump has promised a new approach to the conflict, one that emphasizes “peace through strength.” Can you elaborate on what that looks like in practice?
Keith Kellogg: Absolutely. The idea of “peace through strength” means that we need to demonstrate both moral and military resolve. It’s about ensuring that our allies see our commitment to security, while also presenting a formidable front to adversaries. In practical terms, this involves strategic diplomatic initiatives combined with a clear framework for military support to ensure Ukraine has the resources needed to defend itself.
Time.news Editor: Some critics have expressed concerns about the billions the U.S. has allocated to support Ukraine. How do you address those concerns while advocating for continued assistance?
Keith Kellogg: I understand the concerns. Fiscal responsibility is vital, and we need to ensure that our support is effective and aligns with our strategic interests. However, it’s crucial to recognize that supporting Ukraine is not just about aiding a foreign nation—it’s an investment in global security. A stable Ukraine helps prevent further aggression in Europe and safeguards American interests against authoritarian expansion.
Time.news Editor: You’ve served in various capacities within the national security framework. How does your experience influence your approach to conflict resolution in Ukraine?
Keith Kellogg: My time in the military, as well as my role as Mike Pence’s advisor, has equipped me with insights into both the tactical and strategic aspects of national security. I believe that understanding both the battlefield realities and the diplomatic landscape is essential. My goal is to blend these perspectives to find opportunities for dialog while ensuring Ukraine remains capable of defending itself.
Time.news Editor: Given that the Biden administration has taken a different approach to the conflict, how do you plan to navigate the existing policies and possibly pivot the direction of U.S. involvement?
Keith Kellogg: The previous administration’s strategies were rooted in strong alliances and military readiness. Moving forward, I think it’s essential to assess what’s working and what isn’t. This does not mean we disregard previous policies; instead, we’ll build upon them, making adjustments where necessary to not only support Ukraine but also engage Russia in a way that reflects our commitment to peace.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned engaging Russia. What specific measures do you foresee that could lead to productive dialog with Moscow?
Keith Kellogg: Engagement would require a multifaceted approach. This includes establishing communication channels that allow for direct dialog on conflict resolution and stability. It may also involve economic and diplomatic pressures that hold Russia accountable while signaling that we are open to negotiations to prevent further escalation.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, as you embark on this mission, what message do you hope to convey to both the Ukrainian people and the broader international community?
Keith Kellogg: I want Ukraine to know that they are not alone in this fight. The United States stands firm in its commitment to their sovereignty. To the international community, I hope to convey that through a cohesive and collaborative effort, we can forge a path toward lasting peace. It requires dedication, but the stakes are high, and the time to act is now.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, General Kellogg, for sharing your insights. We look forward to seeing how your role evolves in the coming months.
Keith Kellogg: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these critical issues. Together, we can work towards a hopeful resolution in Ukraine.