Trump"s Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg to Resign in January 2026

In a significant development within the Trump administration, Keith Kellogg, the Special Envoy for Ukraine, has announced his intention to resign from his position in January 2026. This decision comes amid growing frustrations regarding the administration"s approach to Ukraine policy, which has been described as fragmented and ineffective. Sources close to Kellogg indicate that his heavy workload and the administration"s perceived reluctance to apply pressure on Russia during stalled peace negotiations have contributed to his decision to step down.

Key Details

Keith Kellogg, a retired Lieutenant General, has served as President Donald Trump"s Special Envoy for Ukraine for a term of 360 days. His resignation is expected to raise concerns among allies in Kyiv, who have viewed Kellogg as a crucial advocate against Russian aggression in the region. His departure is scheduled for January 2026, marking a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy regarding Ukraine.

Throughout his tenure, Kellogg has been involved in high-level discussions and negotiations concerning Ukraine"s security and territorial integrity. However, he has reportedly faced challenges in aligning with other envoys, including Steve Witkoff, particularly regarding issues of territorial concessions in peace talks with Russia. These internal conflicts reflect broader tensions within the administration over how to effectively address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Background

Keith Kellogg"s background as a retired Lieutenant General and former National Security Advisor under President Trump has positioned him as a key figure in U.S. foreign policy. His experience in military and strategic matters has been instrumental in shaping the administration"s stance on Ukraine, especially in light of Russia"s ongoing military actions in the region. The conflict, which escalated significantly in 2022, has drawn international condemnation and has led to widespread support for Ukraine from Western allies.

Since the onset of the conflict, the U.S. has provided substantial military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, aiming to bolster its defenses against Russian aggression. However, the administration"s approach has faced criticism for being inconsistent and lacking a clear strategy, particularly in terms of negotiating peace and addressing the needs of Ukraine"s government and military.

What"s Next

Kellogg"s resignation is likely to have implications for U.S.-Ukraine relations, as his departure may signal a shift in the administration"s approach to the ongoing conflict. Allies in Kyiv may be concerned about the potential for a less robust U.S. advocacy in their favor, especially in light of the stalled peace talks with Russia. The administration"s next steps will be closely watched by international observers and policymakers, as they will need to navigate the complexities of the situation while maintaining support for Ukraine.

As previously reported, the Trump administration has faced criticism for its handling of the Ukraine situation, with some officials suggesting that Ukraine must accept a deal to end the war. The dynamics within the administration, particularly regarding the roles of various envoys and advisors, will be crucial in determining the future of U.S. involvement in Ukraine.

For more on this topic, see our related coverage on Trump"s Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg to leave post in January 2026.