US Presidential Special Representative for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, has been effectively removed from negotiations on the settlement of the Russian-Ukrainian war. Politico writes about this, citing sources.
According to Politico, the talks between the United States and Ukraine, which Kellogg did not attend, confirm that he has been “pushed to the sidelines.” Meanwhile, the talks were centered on Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Volz, and US Presidential Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff.
However, other American officials deny this. White House national security spokesman James Hewitt said that Kellogg “remains a valuable part of the team, particularly regarding negotiations with European allies.” White House press secretary Anna Kelly added: “Following the president’s clear direction to end this war is General [retired] Kellogg’s only concern.”
Meanwhile, a person close to Kellogg denied to Politico that he was being pushed out and that it was probably just “Washington infighting.”
According to the source, Kellogg often speaks directly with Trump, “and he’s the one he works for, and no one else.” In addition, among all the administration’s representatives, he has the best relationship with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which has lasted for several years.
Politico writes that Kellogg’s appointment as special envoy for Ukraine was greeted with a “sigh of relief” in Kyiv and Europe, as he is seen as a hawk on Russia. He allegedly understands the risks of a “failed” peace deal that would benefit Moscow. Some US administration officials and Republicans close to the White House note that, at the same time, figures in Trump’s team, such as Vice President J.D. Vance, who are more skeptical about helping Ukraine, are “on the rise.”
