Keith Kellogg seems to be effectively sidelined from Ukraine peace talks

Politico reported the information. 

When Donald Trump appointed retired Gen. Keith Kellogg as his envoy for Russia-Ukraine peace talks in January, many in Kyiv and Europe welcomed the move. Kellogg was seen as a tough-on-Russia figure with strong MAGA credentials who understood the risks of negotiating with Vladimir Putin.

Two months later, Kellogg appears to have been sidelined. Key figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff have taken the lead in Ukraine talks, leaving some wondering why Trump’s special envoy isn’t at the table.

“Kellogg’s role is very much in question,” a Trump administration official told NatSec Daily. “There are too many principals trying to be the hero in ending the war.”

The White House denies sidelining Kellogg. “Gen. Kellogg remains a valued part of the team, especially in talks with our European allies,” said national security spokesperson James Hewitt. A person close to Kellogg dismissed the rumors as “Washington infighting” and insisted he still speaks directly with Trump.

At a Council on Foreign Relations event, Kellogg played down any tension, saying he works well with Witkoff’s team. “Steve’s a great guy, and we’ve got a really good relationship,” he said.

Still, his diminished presence raises questions about shifting dynamics in Trump’s administration, particularly as voices skeptical of U.S. support for Ukraine, like Vice President J.D. Vance, gain influence. Whether Kellogg is truly out or just operating behind the scenes remains to be seen.