- Keith Kellogg, US envoy, arrives in Kyiv for talks with President Zelenskyy.
- Former President Trump claims Ukraine is to blame for the war.
- Kellogg stresses US commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and security guarantees.
- Zelenskyy cancels trip to Saudi Arabia over sidelining in US-Russia talks.
- US signals changes in support for Ukraine’s NATO ambitions.
On Wednesday, Keith Kellogg, the US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, landed in Kyiv. He met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and top military commanders. This visit is crucial as the US re-evaluates its approach to Russia, especially with the war in Ukraine still raging since February 2022.
Kellogg’s trip followed controversial remarks from former President Donald Trump. Trump claimed that Ukraine started the war, which sparked anger in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have long called for international support against Russia’s invasion, which they see as unprovoked.
The war, now entering its fourth year, has seen major battles, particularly in eastern Ukraine. Russia’s larger forces have been gaining ground, and Ukrainian troops have had to retreat in some areas. With the pressure mounting, Ukraine’s need for external support has become even more urgent.
Kellogg’s Diplomatic Mission
Kellogg’s mission in Kyiv aims to reaffirm US support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. He described his visit as an opportunity to hold “good, substantial talks” with Ukrainian leaders. Speaking on arrival, Kellogg emphasized the importance of ensuring Ukraine’s independence and security in the face of Russian aggression.
“Part of my mission is to sit and listen,” said Kellogg, a retired three-star general, in comments carried by the Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne Novyny. He added that the US is fully aware of Ukraine’s need for security guarantees and that these concerns would be conveyed to US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Zelenskyy Cancels Saudi Trip Amid Tensions
In response to these developments, President Zelenskyy decided to cancel his scheduled trip to Saudi Arabia. This move was widely interpreted as an expression of dissatisfaction with the US-Russia talks, where Ukraine’s voice has been marginalized. By canceling the trip, Zelenskyy sought to underline Ukraine’s concerns about being excluded from crucial international discussions regarding its future.
The talks between US and Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia, where Ukraine was not invited, have added to tensions. Analysts suggest that Zelenskyy’s decision to stay in Kyiv was an attempt to make a political statement, refusing to legitimize discussions that do not directly involve Ukraine.
Security Guarantees and NATO Membership Debate
A crucial part of Kellogg’s mission involves addressing Ukraine’s ongoing desire to join NATO. However, US officials have signaled that this aspiration may not be immediately achievable. While the prospect of NATO membership for Ukraine remains uncertain, Kellogg reaffirmed the need for strong security guarantees to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty.
“We understand the need for security guarantees,” Kellogg stated. He acknowledged the importance of securing Ukraine’s future and ensuring its independence remains intact.
For Zelenskyy, the conversation is about more than just NATO membership; it’s about concrete commitments from the US to provide Ukraine with security in the event of further Russian aggression. While the US has expressed its commitment to supporting Ukraine, it is unclear whether such commitments will materialize in the form of legally binding security agreements.
The Road Ahead: Diplomacy or Escalation?
The US continues to grapple with balancing its support for Ukraine with diplomatic overtures to Russia. Kellogg’s visit highlights the complexities of this situation, where the US must tread carefully to avoid escalating tensions further while providing effective support to Ukraine.
Kellogg, whose role involves assessing the situation firsthand and reporting back to US officials, will likely be a key player in shaping future policy. His visit could significantly influence the direction of US diplomacy in the region.
As the war in Ukraine rages on, the international community’s stance on the conflict continues to evolve. The United States, through Kellogg’s visit, has reinforced its commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, while also signaling a shift in its approach to Russia. As the situation unfolds, Ukraine’s call for international support remains as urgent as ever, particularly as it faces mounting military pressure from Russia.