Trump considers former intelligence leader for Ukraine special envoy role – Reuters

Donald Trump is reportedly contemplating the appointment of Richard Grenell as the special envoy for the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to a report by Reuters. Read Full Article at RT.com.

Trump considers former intelligence leader for Ukraine special envoy role – Reuters
Richard Grenell has made a case for establishing “autonomous zones” and has argued that Ukraine should be kept out of NATO.

US President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering appointing Grenell, a veteran of his prior administration, as the special envoy for the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to sources cited by Reuters. Grenell, who previously held the roles of US ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence, is among those being evaluated for the position.

Fox News first reported Trump’s intention to appoint a high-ranking diplomat to “find a resolution, to get to a peace settlement,” indicating that the appointee will have “a lot of credibility.” Sources from Reuters have confirmed that Trump is exploring the possibility of creating this special envoy role, with Grenell as a potential choice. Although the introduction of the position is not guaranteed, reports suggest that Trump is leaning toward its establishment.

Grenell, who has extensive diplomatic experience, served as the US ambassador to Germany from 2018 to 2020 and was acting director of national intelligence for several months in 2020. After taking his position in Berlin, he encouraged European capitals to sever business dealings with Iran and openly supported local right-wing parties—actions that led to significant criticism from EU leaders who viewed them as lacking diplomatic tact and an attempt to interfere with internal politics.

Grenell's proposals for the Ukraine conflict include the formation of “autonomous zones” and a position against Ukraine’s accession to NATO in the near future, a viewpoint that resonates with many within Trump's circle.

Supporters highlight Grenell's extensive diplomatic background and his in-depth understanding of European matters. He served as the special presidential envoy for the Serbia-Kosovo peace negotiations between 2019 and 2021 and helped secure an agreement in September 2020 between Serbia and its breakaway region, contributing to economic normalization and tension reduction at the time.

Trump has expressed a commitment to quickly resolving the Ukraine conflict. Reports suggest a plan that would involve Ukraine halting its NATO aspirations and accepting a freeze along the current front lines. However, Russia has dismissed this idea outright, insisting that all objectives of the military operation—including Ukrainian neutrality, demilitarization, and denazification—must be achieved.

Olivia Brown contributed to this report for TROIB News