Trump's Ukraine Envoy, Gen. Keith Kellogg, Set to Leave Post in January 2026 Amid Shift in US Policy on Ukraine

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U.S. President Donald Trump's Special Envoy for Ukraine, retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, is planning to leave the administration in January 2026, according to four sources familiar with the matter. This departure comes as a significant loss for Ukraine, as Kellogg has been a vocal advocate for the country's interests in the Trump administration. Kellogg's temporary designation as Special Envoy for Ukraine means he must be confirmed by the Senate to stay in his position beyond 360 days. However, he has reportedly chosen to step down in January, citing existing legislation as a natural departure point. Kellogg's departure is likely to be met with disappointment in Kyiv, where he was widely regarded as a sympathetic ear in an administration that has sometimes leaned towards Moscow's views on the war in Ukraine. Despite occasional clashes with other officials, Kellogg has consistently denounced Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure and has been a key figure in facilitating the release of dozens of hostages held by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko. One of Kellogg's notable successes was facilitating the release of hostages in exchange for limited sanctions relief. However, his departure comes as Trump's approach to Ukraine has varied significantly. While the President has been focused on ending the war, his methods have been inconsistent, with periods of reduced intelligence sharing and discontinued military assistance programs. The loss of Kellogg's expertise and advocacy is likely to be felt in the administration, particularly given the ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Ukraine. With Kellogg set to leave his post, it remains unclear who will replace him or how the U.S. will continue to engage with Ukraine in the coming months. The United States has yet to appoint a Senate-confirmed ambassador for Ukraine, with career diplomat Julie Fisher serving as the charge d'affaires at the U.S. mission in Kyiv. As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, the impact of Kellogg's departure and the future of U.S. policy on the region will be closely watched.